Long-Term Experience with Direct-Bonded Retainers: Update and Clinical Advice

The use of fixed lingual retainers is increasing, since they have several advantages compared to removable retainers. Long-term clinical experience and follow-up studies have demonstrated the need for two types of bonded retainers: a thick wire retainer for mandibular 3-3 retainers and a thin spiral wire retainer for retention of upper incisors or other dental segments. The purpose of this article is to present a clinical update of more than 30 years of experience with various types of bonded retainers and include some practical clinical advice on retainer design and fabrication.