Effects of storage conditions on removable orthodontic retainers

A Randomised Crossover Clinical Trial to Compare the Effects of Different Storage Conditions on Removable Retainers

Not applicable Interventional University of Malaya · NCT05854953

This study is testing whether keeping removable orthodontic retainers in wet or dry conditions affects their quality and how well they work for people who just finished braces.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Malaya Academic / other
Locations1 site (Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan)
Trial IDNCT05854953 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how different storage conditions (wet vs. dry) affect removable orthodontic retainers, specifically focusing on microbial colony counts, surface roughness, color stability, and compressive strength. The goal is to determine the best storage method to enhance the longevity of retainers and improve oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) for patients. A total of 24 participants aged 18 and above will be recruited, who have completed fixed orthodontic treatment and are ready for retainer placement. The study aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for retainer care.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 18 and above who have completed fixed orthodontic treatment and are ready for retainer placement.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing sectional fixed appliance treatment or those with systemic diseases affecting salivary flow may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved oral health and longer-lasting retainers for orthodontic patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on storage conditions for removable retainers may be novel, similar studies on appliance care have shown promising results in improving patient outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients aged 18 years and above
* Fixed appliance treatment on both the upper and lower arches
* Ready for debond
* Planned for either Hawley retainers or VFRs for retention
* Fit and healthy patients without systemic disease
* Non-smoking patients

Exclusion Criteria:

* Sectional fixed appliance treatment or fixed appliance treatment on single arch only
* Planned for double retention with bonded retainers
* Systemic disease that may affect salivary flow
* Smoking patients

Where this trial is running

Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Orthodontic Appliance Complicationremovable retainerswet storage conditiondry storage condition
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.