Orthodontic Retention Appliance

This randomized clinical trial will compare the effectiveness of a gold-plated multistranded mandibular fixed retainer versus a conventional multistranded stainless-steel fixed retainer in maintaining lower anterior tooth alignment after completion of orthodontic treatment. Eligible participants (post-orthodontic patients requiring mandibular fixed retention) will be allocated in a 1:1 ratio to receive either a gold-plated 0.0195-inch multistranded retainer or an identical-gauge 0.0195-inch stainless-steel multistranded retainer. Participants will be followed for 6 months. The primary outcome is post-treatment stability of mandibular anterior alignment, assessed by changes in Little's Irregularity Index over time, along with retainer failure outcomes (e.g., time to first failure and tooth-level failure events). Secondary outcomes include periodontal health indices and related clinical measures collected at baseline and follow-up visits. For the microbiological assessment, plaque/biofilm will be collected from the retainer using sterile swabs at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months to evaluate bacterial levels associated with each retainer material.

This study aims to compare two types of orthodontic retainers used after active treatment to maintain teeth position. The retainers are fabricated using either direct 3D-printing or thermoforming methods. The study will evaluate which method provides better dimensional accuracy (fit) and color stability over time. Adult patients who have completed their orthodontic treatment will be randomly assigned to one of three groups, each receiving a different type of retainer. The research is conducted at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, Al-Azhar University - Assiut Branch. The goal is to help orthodontists select the most reliable and durable type of retainer for long-term use.