The Comparison of the Retention of the Hawley and Clear Retainers

Abstract

Background and purpose: The long-term stability of orthodontic treatment is one of the success indicators of orthodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to compare the retention of Hawley and clear retainers in clinical conditions. Method: 20 samples were selected from patients whose orthodontic treatment was completed and who were supposed to be provided with Hawley or transparent retainer for their upper jaw. Patients were evaluated at the retainer delivery session (T0), after three months (T1) and after 6 months (T2). Force gauge was used to determine the retention value. To analyze the data, ANOVA test was used in SPSS software version 26 at a significance level of 0.05. Results: In the Hawley group, the reduction trend of retention from T0 to T1 and T0 to T2 was significant. (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively) In the transparent group, the reduction trend of retention from T0 to T1, T0 to T2 and T1 to T2 was significant. (P=0.002, P=0.001 and P=0.001, respectively) A significant difference was seen in the comparison of Hawley's retainer group with the transparent group 3 months and 6 months after delivery of the retainer. (P>0.001, P>0.001) Conclusion: Clinically, transparent retainer provides better retention compared to Hawley retainer.