Effects of vacuum-formed retainers on periodontal status and their retention efficiency

The stability of treatment results is a major concern in orthodontics. Numerous retention regimens to maintain stability have been introduced. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of vacuum-formed retainers (VFRs) on periodontal tissues and the retention efficiency of VFRs. Forty patients were included in this study. Clinical effectiveness of VFRs for nighttime use only over a 12-month period was assessed by using the American Board of Orthodontics' Objective Grading System. Periodontal measurements and indexes were recorded and evaluated immediately after removal of the braces and after 1, 6, and 12 months of VFR use. There was no significant change in the total Objective Grading System score between the end of the active treatment period and the end of the 12-month retention period. However, regarding periodontal measurements, the plaque and gingival indexes decreased, whereas the bleeding on probing, probing depth, calculus index, and clinical attachment loss increased between the evaluated periods. In terms of periodontal health, the use of VFRs resulted in a slight periodontal attachment loss that seemed to be clinically insignificant, without gingival inflammation or recession. In terms of stability, VFRs were found to be effective in orthodontic retention. •Vacuum-formed retainers were found to be effective in orthodontic retention.•Their long-term use resulted in a slight periodontal attachment loss.•Their long-term use did not lead to gingival inflammation or gingival recession.