Comparing orthodontic relapse of mandibular anterior teeth with traditional bonded versus magnetic retainers after 2 years of retention

• Published in: Journal of the world federation of orthodontists 2017-06, Vol.6 (2), p.45-49
• Main Authors: Armstrong, Adam W, Oliver, Donald R, Araújo, Eustáquio A, Thiesen, Guilherme, Kim, Ki Beom
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Dentistry; Irregularity index; Orthodontic retainers; Relapse
• ISSN: 2212-4438; 2212-4438
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ejwf.2017.04.003

Abstract Objective To examine the efficacy of the magnetic retainer as compared with canine-to-canine retainers bonded to each tooth. Materials and Methods Using digital models of 39 patients who had the magnetic retainer (MagneTainer) placed at debond and 41 patients who had canine-to-canine retainers placed at debond, Little's Irregularity Index (LII), intercanine width (ICW), and a tooth size arch length discrepancy (TSALD) for the lower anterior teeth were calculated before treatment, at placement of retainers, and 2 years after placement. The groups were compared to determine if any significant differences existed. Results Significant differences within each group were seen for changes in LII and TSALD at 2 years compared with debond ( P < .001). The only significant differences between the groups were related to ICW ( P < .05). Correlations were found between initial ICW, initial TSALD, and initial LII. LII and TSALD were shown to have a strong, positive correlation. Conclusions There are no significant differences in the efficacy of canine-to-canine retainers bonded to each tooth and the magnetic retainer.