Maxillary retention: is longer better?

Destang, D.L. and Kerr, W.J.S. (2003) Maxillary retention: is longer better? European Journal of Orthodontics, 25, pp. 65-69.

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Abstract

Two different maxillary retention regimes were compared to ascertain if differences in posttreatment relapse existed. The patient pool was derived from subjects being treated at two orthodontic departments in the west of Scotland. Group 1 (20 patients) followed a 6 month regime using removable upper Hawley retainers for a period of 3 months full time and 3 months nights only. Group 2 (18 patients) followed a 1 year regime of 6 months full time and 6 months nights only. The results revealed that maxillary incisor alignment, as determined by Little's irregularity index, had relapsed by an average of 50 per cent of the end of retention value 3 months out of retention in Group 1 but only 23 per cent in Group 2. Although the actual mean values for relapse were 0.77 and 0.23 mm, respectively, seven subjects in Group 1 showed relapse of more than 3 mm as compared with only one in Group 2. This suggests that retaining a case for 1 year rather than 6 months is clinically beneficial.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:UNSPECIFIED
Authors: Destang, D.L., and Kerr, W.J.S.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
Journal Name:European Journal of Orthodontics

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