After completion of orthodontic treatment, a retention phase is required to prevent relapse of tooth malposition. Fixed retention in the mandibular anterior region is commonly used. This type of retainer is bonded to the lingual surfaces of the canines and incisors and may hinder oral hygiene, thereby promoting bacterial plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation.
Currently, probably due to the increasing use of clear aligner therapy, clear removable Essix-type retainers are becoming more widely used. Since these retainers can be removed by the patient, they may facilitate oral hygiene. However, studies assessing gingival health and the composition of the subgingival microbiota in patients wearing orthodontic retainers remain scarce.
Therefore, the aim of this study will be to assess the composition of the gingival sulcus microbiota and gingival health in patients wearing fixed or removable orthodontic retainers.
Ten adult patients who have completed orthodontic treatment will be recruited and divided into two groups:
Periodontal parameters will be assessed, and bacterial plaque samples will be collected from the gingival sulcus at five time points:
T0: Bracket removal and dental scaling appointment. Periodontal parameters will be assessed, and plaque samples will be collected before bracket debonding and dental scaling.
T1: Retainer placement appointment, three days after T0. Periodontal parameters will be assessed, and plaque samples will be collected before retainer placement.
T2: One month after retainer placement.
T3: Three months after retainer placement.
T4: Six months after retainer placement.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria:
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The study will be open-label because fixed and removable orthodontic retainers are readily distinguishable. Participants, care providers and investigators will be aware of the assigned retention method.
Microbiological samples will be coded, and laboratory personnel performing 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis will be unaware of group allocation.
Participants assigned to this arm will receive a fixed lingual orthodontic retainer bonded to the mandibular anterior teeth, extending from tooth 33 to tooth 43. The same retainer wire and bonding materials will be used for all participants
Participants assigned to this arm will receive a clear removable Essix-type orthodontic retainer. Participants will be instructed to wear the retainer for 22 hours per day. All retainers will be manufactured using the same material and by the same dental technician.
Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Periodontal Effects of Fixed Retainers
Evaluation of Tailored Electronic Reminders on Compliance With Removable Orthodontic Retention
Assessment of Bacterial Loads of Essix Retainers in Patients Under Retention Therapy
Comparison of the Effect of Two Types of Fixed Retainers on the Health of the Gums
RCT for the Effectiveness of 3 Orthodontic Retention Schemes on Post-treatment Stability and Gingival Recession
Comparison of Oral Hygiene & Root Resorption During Orthodontic Treatment
The Effectiveness of 3 Orthodontic Fixed Retention Schemes on Post-treatment Stability and Gingival Recession
The Effect of Full Versus Partial Coverage Thermoformed Retainers in Dual Retention With a Lower Bonded Retainer, on Periodontal, Orthodontic, and Patient-Reported Outcomes