Effect of different retainers on enamel remineralization after fixed orthodontic treatment

AIM: To observe the effect of enamel remineralization by different retainers and the effect of remineralization by fluoride protector after fixed orthodontic treatment. METHODS: Patients were randomly assigned into traditional retainer group( Group A,117 teeth) and vacuum- formed retainer group( Group B,116 teeth). In group A and B the patients were divided into 3 groups. In group 1,the teeth surface was coated with 0. 9 % sodium chloride solution; in group 2,fluoride protector( 1 mg / mL F- Ivoclar Vivadent) was directly applied; in group 3,the demineralization area of the teeth was acid etched,then fluoride protector was spreaded on the whole tooth surface. The demineralization area of each tooth was measured by software ZWCAD2010. The data were analyzed by SPSS 17. 0.RESULTS: When the fixed appliance was removed the demineralization area was similar in all the groups( P 0. 05).After 3 months of remineralization treatment the demineralization area change in groups B was more significant than that of groups A( P 0. 05),that of groups 2 and 3 was more significant than that of groups 1( P 0. 05),and there was no difference between groups 2 and groups 3( P 0. 05). COMCLUSION: Using traditional Hawley retainer is more prone to remineralization. Topical fluoride application is effective for remineralization.