Comparison between fiber-reinforced polymers and stainless steel orthodontic retainers

Objective The aim of this study was to examine the properties of fiber-reinforced composite and stainless steel twisted retainers for orthodontic retention. Methods Three different span lengths (5.0, 8.0, and 14.0 mm) of fiber-reinforced composite were investigated. The three fiber-reinforced composite retainer groups were subdivided according to the storage condition (dry and wet), resulting in a total of six groups. Each stainless steel and fiber-reinforced composite group was comprised of six specimens. The three-point bending flexural test was conducted using a universal testing machine. ANOVA was used to assess differences in the maximum load and maximum stress according to the span length, material, and storage condition. Post-hoc comparisons were performed if necessary. Results The maximum stress and maximum load were significantly (p < 0.001) associated with the span length, material, and storage condition. The significant interaction between the material and span length (p < 0.001) indicated the differential effects of the material for each span length on the maximum stress and maximum load, with the difference between materials being the highest for the maximum span length. Conclusions Our findings suggest that fiber-reinforced composite retainers may be an effective alternative for orthodontic retention in patients with esthetic concerns or allergy to conventional stainless steel wires.