Fixed Flexible Spiral Wire Retainers and Unwanted Tooth Movements: A Case Report

This case report presents a study of unwanted tooth movements during the retention phase after orthodontic treatment. The early recognition of these unwanted tooth movements is paramount for patients and clinicians to prevent the associated negative consequences. A 21-year-old male presented with aesthetic complaints regarding his upper front teeth. He underwent orthodontic treatment at the age of 9 years and 11 months and finished his treatment 2 years and 11 months later. Flexible spiral wires (FSW) were bonded to the anterior segment of the upper and lower jaws to stabilize the end result. The failure of the fixed retainers had never occurred previously. The diagnostic assessment demonstrated a previously orthodontically treated class I malocclusion with excessive angulation and torque differences in the maxillary anterior segment. To correct the position of the maxillary anterior segment and prevent further misalignment, the patient received orthodontic re-treatment. Thereafter, the result was retained with fixed braided-rectangular-wire (BRW) retainers located at 12–22 and 33–43 and a vacuum-formed retainer (VFR) in the maxilla. The end result appeared to be stable after 28 months of retention. Unwanted tooth movements can occur during the orthodontic retention phase and might result from the use of fixed flexible spiral wire retainers. Follow-up appointments are recommended to monitor the stability and recognize these movements.