Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 30, 2025
11:19
Oral Biofilm Formation on Different Materials for Dental Implants
Published on: June 24, 2018
11.9K
Thermoformed Retainer: An Effective Option for Long-Term Stability
A Giancotti1, P Mozzicato1, G Mampieri1
1Department of Orthodontics, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
Case Reports in Dentistry
|November 16, 2020
Summary
Essix retainers, a type of thermoplastic appliance, demonstrate effectiveness in maintaining orthodontic results long-term. This clinical case shows stable posterior occlusion after 10 years with patient-managed retention.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Orthodontic retention is crucial for long-term tooth stability, yet permanent supervision poses challenges.
- The Essix retainer system emphasizes patient responsibility for maintaining results.
- This study evaluates the long-term effectiveness of thermoplastic appliances as orthodontic retainers.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old male patient with Class II malocclusion, division 2, underwent orthodontic treatment.
- The treatment aimed for aesthetic smile improvement while preserving the Class II molar and canine relationship.
- Invisalign System was utilized for the orthodontic therapy.
Findings:
- The clinical case demonstrated significant posterior occlusal stability over a 10-year follow-up period.
- Thermoformed retainers proved effective in maintaining the corrected occlusion.
- Maximum patient collaboration was essential for achieving and sustaining long-term stability.
Implications:
- Removable plastic devices, like thermoformed retainers, are increasingly popular in orthodontics.
- These retainers offer a viable solution for both anterior and posterior tooth retention.
- The findings support the use of patient-managed thermoplastic retainers for durable orthodontic outcomes.
