Importance of post-treatment orthodontic retention

Abstract

During orthodontic treatment, teeth are gradually moved into their ideal positions, requiring time, patience and commitment. After braces are removed, it is essential to wear retainers to prevent teeth from moving back to their original positions. The most common materials for manufacturing retainers are stainless steel wire, fiberglass, acrylic, thermoformable plastic, polyurethane. Proper use of orthodontic retainers, as recommended by the orthodontist, promotes a beautiful and functional smile over the years, avoiding the need for orthodontic retreatment. Furthermore, it contributes to long-term oral health, facilitating cleaning and preventing cavities and gum disease. The objective of this literature review was to present the importance of using orthodontic containment after the completion of treatment to maintain the gains obtained and avoid recurrence. We can then say that for the success of a treatment it is linked to it the use and maintenance of containment.