Transfer accuracy of four different lingual retainer transfer methods using digital orthodontic models: An in vivo comparative study

ABSTRACT Objectives To compare the transfer accuracy of four different lingual retainer (LR) transfer methods using three-dimensional digital models. Materials and Methods Four groups of 17 patients each were created: finger transfer (FT), silicone key transfer (SKT), acrylic resin transfer (ART), and indirect bonding (IDB). At the end of orthodontic treatment, the mandibular dental casts of patients were scanned with the LR wire. Then, intraoral scanning of the mandibular arches was performed after bonding the retainer wires. Linear and angular measurements were made using software on superimposed digital models. Results Horizontal and vertical errors among the teeth were not significantly different among the FT, SKT, and ART groups. However, in the IDB group, linear transfer errors showed significant differences among the different teeth. The tip and rotation errors in the FT group were not significantly different among the teeth. The angular errors were lower in canines than in the incisors. In all measured parameters, the SKT group showed the lowest errors, whereas the FT group had the highest transfer errors in all parameters except vertical. Conclusions Among the transfer methods tested, SKT was determined to have the highest clinical accuracy.

Technique to Stabilize a Lingual Retainer Under Rubber Dam Isolation

Retention is an important phase of orthodontic treatment for prevention of relapse. Over the years, many direct and indirect techniques have been practiced for placing a bonded lingual retainer. The use of rubber dam has become one of the most critical steps during fixed lingual retainer bonding procedure, as it prevents aerosols from spreading in operatory to a greater extent. This article describes a simple method of utilizing rubber dam clamps to assist in the stabilization of lingual retainer wire on teeth. It is easy, simple, reliable, timesaving, and economical as it does not require special equipment or transfer trays.

Fixed Lingual Retainer Positioner: A narrative review

Retention is one of the most critical phase of Orthodontic treatment . Angle stated that "the problem involved in retention are greater than the difficulties being encountered in the treatment, and tests the utmost skill of the operator. The various retention appliances available include Removable retainers and bonded retainers. Removable retainers have their own advantages and disadvantages, but they need patient’s compliance to wear them.Fixed retainers consist of a length of orthodontic wire that is bonded on the lingual aspect of tooth .The major advantages of bonded retainers includes invisibility, no patient compliance required and long term retention. Bonding of a lingual retainer is a challenging and technique sensitive procedure because it requires long working time and has a risk of contamination from saliva and moisture, leading to bond failure as it is difficult to adaptation of the retainer wire and further stabilization of contoured retainer wire in the oral cavity during bonding. If retainer wire can be effectively stabilized over the lingual surface of tooth prior to bonding, bonding becomes a simple process. Various methods used to stabilize lingual retainer before bonding involves use of separators (Kesling and elastomeric separators), materials like resin, memosil, glue etc or use of metal Stablizers in form of W,V or use of wires . The objectives of this article is to compile the different retention techniques used to stabilize the lingual retainer wire for bonding altogether at one place. Keywords: Retainers, lingual aspect, Bonding, Stablization

Post-Orthodontic Lower Incisors Recessions: Combined Periodontic and Orthodontic Approach

The bonded lingual retainer (BLR) is considered a favorable choice for retaining lower incisors’ alignment post-orthodontic treatment; however, it may cause some unwanted effects such as inadvertent tooth movement and torque changes. These often result in gingival recession (Miller class III-type) with exposure of the root surface, which compromises the esthetics and hinders the comfort of the patient. Fifteen post-orthodontic patients presenting Miller class III-type recessions with BLR were examined. Two protocols were used: the first included the removal of the BLR prior to surgery and the second included only a surgical approach. All patients underwent the same surgery of a modified tunnel double papilla procedure for root coverage. The gingival recession was measured using a dental probe before, and three to six months post-surgery. The average improvement in recession depth was significantly greater (p = 0.008) for the protocol that included removal of the BLR (4.0 ± 0.83 mm) with an improvement of 87.2% as compared to the second protocol that showed an improvement of 43.8% (1.88 ± 1.29 mm). Removing the BLR prior to surgery is beneficial for predictable root coverage in post-orthodontic Miller class III recessions.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY USED FOR STABILISATION OF BONDED LINGUAL RETAINER

Retention has been a major challenge in the field of Orthodontics with multiple techniques developed over the years to prevent relapse of treatment results. 3D printing has revolutionized dentistry and introduced high accuracy and a custom fit manufacturing process. In this article, an innovative technique using 3D printing has been used for stabilisation of fixed lingual retainers making the entire process simple, efficient and precise.

An Innovative Lingual Retainer Wire Stabilizer

One of the means of maintaining the incisor alignment after orthodontic treatment is by fixed lingual retainer. Over the decade’s various techniques have been advocated for bonding a lingual retainer wire. The most critical step to the orthodontist is stabilization of retainer wire in its stable position to prevent relapse. The purpose of this study is to introduce a custom-made device which is easy to fabricate and stabilizes the retainer wire to the contours of the palatal surface of the teeth without causing any iatrogenic damage to the adjacent soft tissues while bonding.