Four applications of reinforced polyethylene fiber material in orthodontic practice.

Four different orthodontic applications of a polyethylene fiber material are shown and discussed in case reports. Ribbond (Ribbond Inc, Seattle, Wash), a bondable, reinforced polyethylene fiber material, was successfully used in a fixed orthodontic retainer, a space maintainer, a temporary postorthodontic fixation device to attach a pontic to abutment teeth during periodontal therapy, and a posttraumatic stabilization splint. This clinical practice was based on earlier studies showing that the polyethylene fiber material adapted easily to dental contours and could be manipulated during the bonding process. It also has acceptable strength because of good integration of fibers with composite resin; this leads to good clinical longevity. Because thinner composite resins can be used, the volume of the splint can be minimized. There is no need for significant tooth structure removal, so the technique is reversible and conservative. It also satisfies patients' esthetic expectations. These cases show that Ribbond is a promising splint material for use in orthodontic practice.