Some thoughts on retainers: A narrative reflection

Abstract

• Retention is a fundamental part of orthodontic treatment. • Various complications are associated with orthodontic retention. • Retention follow-up helps assess and avoid potential complications. Predetermination of retention goals is as critical as the achievement of biomechanical objectives of dentoskeletal movements. The purpose of the present study was to narratively review the significance and potential complications associated with orthodontic retention. The focus of the present narrative overview was to identify studies addressing the significance and potential complications associated with orthodontic retention. The literature was retrieved from searches of computerized databases, hand searches and authoritative texts using combinations of the following keywords: (1) orthodontic, (2) orthodontic relapse, (3) orthodontic treatment, (4) retention, (5) tooth movement, (6) dental, (7) skeletal, (8) fixed retention, (9) Essix retainer, (10) vacuum-formed retainer, (11) Hawley retainer, (12) periodontal disease, (13) plaque retention, (14) caries; (15) compliance, (16) cost-effectiveness, (17) oral lesions, (18) fenestration, (19) gingival recession, and (20) inadvertent tooth movement. Original studies and review articles were independently screened and read by the authors to retrieve the relevant data. The present review mainly summarized the relevant data. Retention is a fundamental part of orthodontic treatment. Various complications have been reported during the retention phase of orthodontic treatment, such as poor patient compliance, soft tissue lacerations, and retainer fracture. Fixed orthodontic retainers have also been associated with compromised periodontal health in patients with inadequate oral hygiene and plaque control and may lead to inadvertent tooth movement and formation of bone dehiscence or fenestration. Orthodontic retention plays a pivotal role in the long-term maintenance of the achieved orthodontically-induced tooth movements. Patient compliance, daily oral hygiene maintenance, and routine follow-up visits may contribute toward the overall success of orthodontic treatment and generalized oral health.