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Twist-effect, X-effect and other unexpected complications of fixed retainers

Publication at First Faculty of Medicine |
2015

Abstract

Fixed orthodontic retainers are used as a standard device in the retention phase of the orthodontic treatment. In comparison to other retention devices the main advantage is their high effectivity and reliability in the long-term, without the need for patient compliance.

However usage of the fixed retainers is accompanied by a relatively frequent amount of common failures (fracture or debonding of the wire), very rarely unexpected complications can occur, which are characterized by unpredictable tooth movement within otherwise intact fixed retainer even after many years of uneventful retention.