Choice of the retention method after an orthodontic treatment: A narrative review

Introduction: There are three main characteristics that each ideal retainer is required to have: to keep the teeth in the correct position after orthodontic therapy, to be long-lasting and resistant to mechanical damage, and to have no adverse long-term effects on periodontal tissue. Aim: This research paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different retention appliances based on the results of randomized clinical studies that outlines an evidence-based choice of the retention procedure for different cases. Materials and methods: PubMed and Google Scholar were screened for articles. A different search strategy was used to construct algorithms mainly based on the following keywords: orthodontics, retention, stability, impact. Inclusion criteria were as follows: randomized clinical trials evaluating the effectiveness of at least a removable/fixed retention device, availability of a research paper, articles in English, research papers published in the period 2007-2019, human studies. Articles with incomplete data or partial description of the sample/procedures were excluded. No limitations were set as to the presence of an untreated control group, length of follow-up, sample size, number of examined groups. Conclusion: This research paper concludes that bonded retainers prove to be most effective in stabilizing the incisors' position, particularly the lower ones, but their disadvantages include the reopening of the extraction space and the retention of plaque due to difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene. Vacuum-formed Essix retainers appear to be more effective than Hawley retainers in retaining the incisors' position, and patients have indicated that they are more acceptable to wear. Hawley retainers prove to be most effective in preserving a closed extraction space; however, when it comes to maintaining the incisor position, they do not show reliable results. Corresponding Author: Azra Jeleskovic Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Sarajevo e-mail: azra.jeleskovic@gmail.com Choice of the retention method after an orthodontic treatment: A narrative review