Considerations in the Selection of Retainer Following an Orthodontic Treatment

Retention is the phase of orthodontic treatment which maintains the teeth in their orthodontically corrected position. The right choice of retainer selection is essential for the reduction of relapse risk after orthodontic treatment. The Aim of the study was to establish the considerations of retainer selection for reducing the frequency of relapse following an orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods The present study included 403 randomly selected patients, aged 7 to 61, treated and monitored by same specialist orthodontist, between 1999 and 2014. Patients were grouped by age (group 1 (6-12), group 2 (12-21), group 3 (21-40), group 4 (40-61)), type and severity of malocclusion, periodontal status, type of orthodontic appliances, period and type of retention based on data from their records, study models and photo documentation. Results It was found a correlation between the age, type and severity of malocclusion, periodontal status, type of orthodontic appliances, cooperation of the patient and the choice of retainer. The most commonly used retainers in all patient groups were established. Conclusion Orthodontic retainers counteract the natural tendency of teeth to return to their original position under the influence of periodontal, occlusal and soft tissue forces.