Comparison of Periodontal Health, Bonding Time and Failure Between Direct and Indirect Fixed Retainer Placement Among Orthodontic Patients

The placement technique of retainers in both maxillary and mandibular arches can influence the time taken for bonding the retainer in the mouth of a patient which can in turn affect the patient´s response to the procedure. The different placement techniques can influence the stability of the retainer wire on teeth and the maintenance of periodontal health during the retention period. Therefore, it is essential to know which technique is better suited for placement and its influence on periodontal health so that in the future it helps clinicians save their time during placement of retainers while benefiting the patients. To our knowledge, this will be the first study both locally and internationally that will include an assessment of periodontal health, time duration of placement and stability of fixed retainer in the maxillary arch as well. Three months period is sufficient for assessment of periodontal health and failure of retainer, long term studies can be at a risk of attrition bias.

OBJECTIVES:

The objectives of this study are:

* The primary objective of this study is to compare the failure of fixed retainers, along with periodontal health and bonding time, which are bonded either through direct method or indirect method on patients undergoing orthodontic debonding through a modified split-mouth technique using mean values for plaque index, gingival index, calculus index follow up appointments over a period of three months. * The secondary objective of the study is to assess the amount of time taken during placement of retainers via both direct and indirect bonding of fixed retainers