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Tooth loss as a result of a bonded retainer: a case report
Kelly Smorthit1, Simon J Littlewood2, Jonathan Sandler3
1Speciality Registrar in Orthodontics, Leeds Dental Institute, UK; Speciality Registrar in Orthodontics, Chesterfield Royal Hospital, United Kingdom. kelly_smorthit@hotmail.co.uk.
Abstract:
To reduce the risk of unwanted post-treatment changes following orthodontic treatment, use of bonded retainers is gaining popularity. Despite their efficacy and popularity with patients, it has been widely reported that there are significant risks with bonded retainers if they are not maintained and monitored. This case report demonstrates how unwanted tooth movement caused by a bonded retainer can lead to catastrophic failure and ultimately, tooth loss. The importance of active and regular monitoring of bonded retainers is highlighted and recommendations are made to the wider dental community on how to monitor such retainers in clinical practice.
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