Dutch dentists' involvement in orthodontic retention: monitoring, opinions, competence and communication gaps

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: To assess Dutch dentists' experience, competence and opinions on various aspects of orthodontic retention with bonded retainers and identify any gaps that may exist in practice and communication.

MATERIALS/METHODS: A web-based questionnaire was sent to 1000 randomly selected general dentists, covering their (i) experience, competence and opinion in bonded retainer monitoring and maintenance, (ii) knowledge of unintentional active bonded retainers, (iii) responsibility for bonded retainers, and (iv) orthodontic practitioners' communication.

RESULTS: The response rate was 23.6% (n = 236). Orthodontic treatment was performed by 24% of dentists. Dentists were familiar with follow-up (98%), repairs (95%) and placement (77%) of bonded retainers. The more hours involved in treatment, the more competent they felt in repairing BRs (P = .025). However, over a quarter felt insufficiently competent in repairing (26%) and placement (33%) of bonded retainers. When patients requested their dentist to remove their bonded retainer, 89% informed them about possible consequences, and 41% referred them to their orthodontic practitioner. Awareness of torsional movements of anterior teeth due to unintentionally active bonded retainers was high (77%). Almost two thirds (64%) believed that dentists should check bonded retainers one year after placement. Respondents felt insufficiently informed by orthodontic practitioners regarding several aspects of the retention phase. One-third (34%) would appreciate additional training.

LIMITATIONS: The main limitations of this study are the low response rate, which could result in non-response bias, and the focus on bonded retainers only.

CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Dutch dentists are well informed about the possibility of torsional movements due to unintentionally active bonded retainers. Clear communication between orthodontic practitioners and dentists is essential for effective long-term follow-up and shared responsibility. Knowledge and skills regarding monitoring and maintenance of bonded retainers should be integrated into dental curricula and postgraduate courses.