Subjective evaluation of orthodontic treatment and potential side effects of bonded lingual retainers.

⊙ The primary aim of this study was to evaluate our patients'experience of their treatment period with a fixed appliance and their opinions about the results five years after completion of active treatment. A second aim was to assess bonded lingual retainers and their potential side effects. A final aim was to compare the results in a postgraduate clinic (Goteborg) and a specialist clinic (Vanersborg). This study included 170 patients who finished their active treatment in 1997-1998. Eighty-three patients were from Goteborg (postgraduate clinic) and 87 from Vanersborg (specialist clinic).The patients were examined for visible calculus, approximal caries in the anterior regions, gingival recessions and the status of existing retainers in the upper and lower anterior teeth. All patients completed a questionnaire and were interviewed after undergoing a clinical examination. The statistical methods used were descriptive analysis and the chi-square test. The main reason for orthodontic treatment was appearance and most patients (94%) were satisfied with their treatment result. Our results showed a significantly higher frequency of loosened or fractured retainers at the postgraduate clinic compared to the specialist clinic (p<0.01), which might be explained by operator sensitivity in bonding retainers.There was a tendency for calculus to develop more easily with than without retainers. Conclusion: Patient satisfaction of the treatment given at the postgraduate clinic was the same as at the specialist clinic except for more frequent loosening of bonded retainers.