A Systematic Review of Efficiency of Retention and Periodontal Effects of the Lingual Bonded Retainers

Abstract

Introduction: The fixed lingual bonded retainers have gained preference over removable retainers because they are more aesthetic, comfortable, convenient and free of patient compliance, but their periodontal effects, the incidences of breakages and failure to maintain incisor alignment are the some concerns. Therefore, this study aims to systematically evaluate the efficiency of retention and periodontal effects of lingual bonded retainers in orthodontically treated patients. Materials and Methods: The PRISMA guidelines were followed. The databases of Cochrane Library, PubMed and Google Scholar were systematically searched. All human, original research studies in English evaluating the fixed lingual bonded retainers, in orthodontically treated patients, in single group or in comparison with different fixed lingual bonded retainers, with or without control were included. All articles were subjected to assessment of risk of bias. Results: A total of 17 studies were selected meeting the inclusion criteria. These were divided into two Group 1 - addressing the periodontal status; Group 2 - addressing the lower incisor stability. The 7 selected studies for group 1, reported that periodontal effects like gingival inflammation, plaque and calculus accumulation are associated with all kinds of lingual bonded retainers, but more in multistranded retainer. The lower incisor stability and alignment during retention phase was shown to be very efficient with multistranded retainers compared to others, in the 14 selected studies for group 2. From the 17 selected studies, 8 studies had a high risk of bias, 5 studies had a medium of bias and 4 studies had a low risk of bias. Conclusion: Even though newer types of retainers are being introduced to improve the survival rate, the multistranded retainers still prove to be a good choice with respect to maintenance of incisor alignment.