A SURVEY OF PATIENTS' EXPERIENCE WITH A DUAL ORTHODONTIC RETENTION PROTOCOL

Abstract Aim: The success of retention protocols in preventing orthodontic relapse depends not only on the effectiveness of the appliances used but also on patient compliance. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of dual retention protocol, which combines fixed retainers and removable retainers to be use only 15 minutes a week. Using a survey method, the long-term stability of the fixed retainer and the time-dependent changes in removable appliance use were examined. Additionally, patients’ knowledge of the protocol and their adherence were assessed. Materials and Methods: Patients who had completed active orthodontic treatment and were managed with a dual retention protocol were identified and invited to participate in an online survey. Data from 278 participants were analyzed, focusing on the frequency and duration of removable retainer use, breakage rates of fixed retainers, and patients’ knowledge regarding the retention protocol. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 22; descriptive statistics were calculated, and categorical variables were analyzed using the Chi-square and Fisher–Freeman–Halton exact tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Knowledge of the purpose of removable retainers was significantly associated with frequency of use. While 76% of participants lacking knowledge of the retainer’s purpose reported non-use, this proportion was only 29.8% among informed participants. Removable retainer use declined over time; approximately 50% reported regular use in the first year, compared with only 4.3% after the third year. Fixed retainer breakage rates also increased over time, reaching 59.7% among the patients who had completed treatment 2–4 years earlier. Conclusion: The findings indicate that reduced motivation and insufficient patient knowledge may compromise adherence to the retention protocol. While the dual retention protocol offers a theoretically effective retention strategy, its long-term success is closely linked to patient education and sustained motivation. Surveys based on patient experience contribute to improving and personalizing retention strategies.