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Accuracy and stability of computer-aided customized lingual fixed retainer: a pilot study.
Seung-Hyun Kang1, Jae-Sung Kwon2, Chooryung Judi Chung3
1Department of Orthodontics, The Institute of Craniofacial Deformity, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Korea.
Progress in Orthodontics
|November 20, 2022
Summary
Custom-cut lingual fixed retainers offer superior accuracy compared to custom-bent and manual types. While all retainer types demonstrated similar stability over six months, custom-cut retainers are recommended for improved precision in orthodontic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Digital technology is driving innovation in lingual fixed retainers.
- Quantitative evaluations of lingual retainer accuracy and stability are limited.
- This study compares two computer-aided customized lingual retainers with a conventional type.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively assess the accuracy of two computer-aided customized lingual fixed retainers and one conventional lingual fixed retainer.
- To evaluate the stability of these three types of lingual fixed retainers.
- To compare the performance of custom-cut, custom-bent, and manual lingual retainers.
Main Methods:
- Three types of lingual retainers (custom-cut, custom-bent, manual) were fabricated on 20 duplicated dental models (10 maxillary, 10 mandibular).
- Accuracy was measured by wire clearance at the interproximal area (WCI) using superimposition analysis.
- Stability was assessed by measuring lateral width, anteroposterior length, and flatness deformation after thermocycling simulating 6 months.
Main Results:
- The custom-bent group exhibited significantly higher WCI in the maxillary arch compared to custom-cut and manual groups.
- The custom-cut group demonstrated significantly less flatness deformation in both arches.
- No significant differences in retainer stability were observed among the three groups after simulated 6-month wear.
Conclusions:
- Custom-cut lingual fixed retainers are recommended due to superior accuracy.
- No significant difference in stability was found between custom-cut, custom-bent, and manual retainers.
- Retainer selection should consider clinical environment alongside accuracy and stability.
