Orthodontic retention protocol among Kurdistan Region of Iraq orthodontists

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Retention is important stage of orthodontic treatment that preserves teeth in new positions. To make occlusion stable after orthodontic treatment, retention protocol is recommended. There is great variation among orthodontists regarding type, duration and strategies of retention following orthodontic treatment. Therefore, the aim of current survey was to identify the common retention procedures and to evaluate the results with similar studies conducted in different countries. Patients and methods: thirty five questionnaires in total with 20 questions were sent to all members of the Iraqi Orthodontic Society living in the Kurdistan region- Iraq. 35 orthodontists were responded to questionnaires. The questionnaire represents specific information about socio-demographic status of the respondents, selection of a retention system, details of commonly used retainers, the duration of the retention period, supervision of the retainers, instructions for patients. After receiving of the completed 35 questionnaires, the data were statistically analyzed. Results: Bonded retainer was the most common retainer for both maxillary (48.57%) and mandibular (65.71%) arches. 28.54% of the orthodontist ended bonded retention within 2 years, while 37% of orthodontists continued retention for more than 2 years. 77.14 % of participants advised to wear the removable appliances on a full-time basis during the first 6 months. Conclusion: All Orthodontists prescribe retention system. Fixed lingual retainer are the most common retainer among orthodontists. This is comparable to the most common prescribed type of retainers in other countries, but there are differences about duration and follow-up protocols.