Types of orthodontic retainers: literature review

Abstract

Orthodontic retainers are important for maintaining results after completing orthodontic treatment. Failure to use retainers at the end of conventional treatment, may alter the desired results. Not using retainers can have negative consequences on the dental arch. It may cause opening of the dental elements, movements and misalignments of the teeth, affecting the aesthetics, functional system, social, psychological and financial aspects of the patient. This work aims inform dental surgeons the types of retainers available in dentistry, providing insights into indications and negative factors associated with their non-use in treatment. This work is a literature review based on research through articles in portuguese and english through the websites PubMed, Google Scholar and SciELO, using the key words: fixed retention, removable retention and orthodontics. It is concluded that the market has several orthodontic devices and the choice of which device to use must take into account the patient's aesthetic needs, hygiene limitations, the initial occlusion of the orthodontic treatment and the patient's cooperation. After a correct assessment and choice of which type of retainer to use, we expect good stability and post-orthodontic results.