Scientific rationale for Clinical Practice Guidelines (part 2): what is the effectiveness of retention devices?

Forty CPGs about orthodontic retention were proposed from this literature review, 10 of which are presented in this second part. In the mandible, fixed retention provides better stability than removable retention and 6-tooth retention is more effective in maintaining incisal alignment. Fixed and removable retention are equivalent in maintaining extraction spaces and arch length. Removable retention allows for minimal tooth movement and establishment of occlusal contacts.