Perceptions and utilization of tele-orthodontics: a survey of the members of the American Association of Orthodontists.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate orthodontists' utilization and perceptions of tele-orthodontics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 30-item online survey was distributed to members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). The questionnaire encompassed topics concerning the orthodontists' utilization, perceptions, clinical applications, limitations, and concerns regarding tele-orthodontics. Descriptive statistics were employed, and comparisons between responses from users and non-users were conducted  using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: 152 members completed the survey, (response rate: 2.4%). More than two third of respondents (69.74%) were users of tele-orthodontics. Users were more aligned with the belief that tele-orthodontics facilitates effective communication (mean ± standard deviation (SD) 4.06 ± 0.83 vs. 3.33 ± 0.94, p < 0.001). Both groups agreed on the requirement of patient fees for tele-orthodontic visits (mean ± SD: 3.62 ± 1.11 users vs. 3.74 ± 1.02 non-users, p = 0.659), and on the capability  of the system to reduce unwarranted referrals (p = 0.20). The majority of participants acknowledged  the utility of the system in monitoring aligners' patients (89% in users vs. 61% in non-users, p < 0.001). Non-users expressed greater concerns regarding privacy risks (mean ± SD: 3.06 ± 0.97 users vs. 3.57 ± 0.86 non-users, p = 0.002). Both groups stressed the significance of obtaining informed consent before utilizing tele-orthodontics. CONCLUSIONS: The widespread acceptance of tele-orthodontics among AAO members was apparent, as demonstrated by their recognition of its effectiveness. There was notable variation in how users and non-users perceived tele-orthodontics. The study's results offer valuable insights into both the potential benefits and drawbacks of incorporating this technology into clinical practice from the clincians' perspective.

Content analysis of AI-generated (ChatGPT) responses concerning orthodontic clear aligners.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the accuracy of ChatGPT answers concerning orthodontic clear aligners. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional content analysis of ChatGPT generated responses to queries related to clear aligner treatment (CAT) was undertaken. A total of 111 questions were generated by three orthodontists based on a set of predefined domains and subdomains. The artificial intelligence (AI)-generated (ChatGPT) answers were extracted and their accuracy was determined independently by five orthodontists. The accuracy of answers was assessed using a prepiloted four-point scale scoring rubric. Descriptive statistics were performed. RESULTS: The total mean accuracy score for the entire set was 2.6 ± 1.1. It was noted that 58% of the AI-generated answers were scored as objectively true, 18% were selected facts, 9% were minimal facts, and 15% were false. False claims included the ability of CAT to reduce the need for orthognathic surgery (4.0 ± 0.0), improve airway function (3.8 ± 0.5), achieve root parallelism (3.6 ± 0.5), alleviate sleep apnea (3.8 ± 0.5), and produce more stable results compared to fixed appliances (3.8 ± 0.5). CONCLUSIONS: The overall level of accuracy of ChatGPT responses to questions concerning CAT was suboptimal and lacked citations to relevant literature. Ability of the software to offer current and precise information was limited. Therefore, clinicians and patients must be mindful of false claims and relevant facts omitted in the answers generated by ChatGPT.

Can ChatGPT identify predatory biomedical and dental journals? A cross-sectional content analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To assess whether ChatGPT can help to identify predatory biomedical and dental journals, analyze the content of its responses and compare the frequency of positive and negative indicators provided by ChatGPT concerning predatory and legitimate journals. METHODS: Four-hundred predatory and legitimate biomedical and dental journals were selected from four sources: Beall's list, unsolicited emails, the Web of Science (WOS) journal list and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ). ChatGPT was asked to determine journal legitimacy. Journals were classified into legitimate or predatory. Pearson's Chi-squared test and logistic regression were conducted. Two machine learning algorithms determined the most influential criteria on the correct classification of journals. RESULTS: The data were categorized under 10 criteria with the most frequently coded criteria being the transparency of processes and policies. ChatGPT correctly classified predatory and legitimate journals in 92.5 % and 71 % of the sample, respectively. The accuracy of ChatGPT responses was 0.82. ChatGPT also demonstrated a high level of sensitivity (0.93). Additionally, the model exhibited a specificity of 0.71, accurately identifying true negatives. A highly significant association between ChatGPT verdicts and the classification based on known sources was observed (P <0.001). ChatGPT was 30.2 times more likely to correctly classify a predatory journal (95 % confidence interval: 16.9-57.43, p-value: <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: ChatGPT can accurately distinguish predatory and legitimate journals with a high level of accuracy. While some false positive (29 %) and false negative (7.5 %) results were observed, it may be reasonable to harness ChatGPT to assist with the identification of predatory journals. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: ChatGPT may effectively distinguish between predatory and legitimate journals, with accuracy rates of 92.5 % and 71 %, respectively. The potential utility of large-scale language models in exposing predatory publications is worthy of further consideration.

Assessment of the efficacy of various maxillary molar intrusion therapies: a systematic review.

AIMS: To systematically assess the efficacy of the various interventions used to intrude maxillary molars. Furthermore, to evaluate associated root resorption, stability of intrusion, subsequent vertical movement of mandibular molars, cost effectiveness, compliance, patient reported outcomes and adverse events. METHODS: A pre-registered and comprehensive literature search of published and unpublished trials until March 22nd 2023 with no language restriction applied in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, DOSS, CENTRAL, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Web of Science, Global Index Medicus, Dissertation and Theses Global, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Trip (PROSPERO: CRD42022310562). Randomized controlled trials involving a comparative assessment of treatment modalities used to intrude maxillary molars were included. Pre-piloted data extraction forms were used. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used for risk of bias assessment, and The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was used for certainty of evidence appraisal. RESULTS: A total of 3986 records were identified through the electronic data search, of which 24 reports were sought for retrieval. Of these, 7 trials were included. One trial was judged at high risk of bias, while the others had some concerns. Based on individual small sample studies, maxillary molar intrusion was achieved using temporary anchorage devices (TADs) and rapid molar intruder appliance (RMI). It was also observed to a lesser extent with the use of open bite bionator (OBB) and posterior bite blocks. The molar intruder appliance and the posterior bite blocks (spring-loaded or magnetic) also intruded the lower molars. Root resorption was reported in two studies involving TADs. None of the identified studies involved a comparison of conventional and TAD-based treatments for intrusion of molars. No studies reported outcomes concerning stability, cost-effectiveness, compliance and patient-reported outcomes. Insufficient homogeneity between the included trials precluded quantitative synthesis. The level of evidence was very low. CONCLUSIONS: Maxillary molar intrusion can be attained with different appliances (removable and fixed) and with the use of temporary anchorage devices. Posterior bite blocks (spring-loaded or magnetic) and the RMI offer the additional advantage of intruding the mandibular molars. However, stability of the achieved maxillary molar intrusion long term is unclear. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed.

Interrelationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Effective communication among members of the dental team is essential for the delivery of high-quality dental care. However, an in-depth understanding of issues concerning the interrelationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians has not been previously undertaken. Therefore, the aim of the study was to explore factors influencing the interrelationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with dental clinicians and laboratory technicians using purposeful snowball sampling. Two trained researchers conducted the interviews based on a pre-piloted topic guide. The interviews were conducted via video conferencing platform, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Field notes were taken during the interviews. Framework Methodology was used to analyze the data. RESULTS: A total of 20 dental clinicians and laboratory technicians were interviewed. The average interview duration was 37 min. Participants mainly reported negative encounters and highlighted the importance of training and exposure, collaborative learning, and alignment of expectations of both parties in terms of cost of laboratory work, turnaround time, and patient preferences. The relationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians depends largely on effective teamwork dynamics and open communication channels. Increased workload, workforce shortage, availability of digital systems, management policies, and financial challenges were emphasized as organizational factors affecting the interrelationship between both groups. Participants highlighted the importance of shadowing, mentorship, education courses, joint discussions, patient-technician rapport, and adoption of digital technology for fostering collaborative practices between the professions. CONCLUSIONS: A multitude of factors influencing the dental clinician-laboratory interrelationship at individual, interpersonal and organizational levels were identified. This study highlights the need to build a transformative relationship underpinned by mutual trust and respect. Such a collaborative relationship will facilitate optimal patient care and successful treatment outcomes. The outcome of this study can help stakeholders identify solutions for enhancing the interrelationship among the dental team, to ultimately improve patient care and efficiency of dental services.

The dark side of fixed retainers: Case series.

This article focuses on on the presentation and management 9 adult patients who experienced complications because of their maxillary or mandibular fixed retainers 5-33 years after orthodontic treatment. Such complications include the development of an anterior crossbite, open bite, incisal cant, and twist- and x-effects. The detrimental effects on periodontal health were highlighted, especially in the mandibular canines. A range of fixed retainer types was identified, including flexible spiral wire bonded to 4 maxillary or 6 mandibular anterior teeth, rigid wire bonded to mandibular canines only and fiber-reinforced composite fixed retainer. Orthodontic retreatment was necessary in all patients using fixed appliances or clear aligners. Radiographic findings from cone-beam computed tomography or orthopantomogram before and after retreatment are presented when available. Despite the improvement of teeth position clinically, the cone-beam computed tomography scans taken directly after the completion of orthodontic retreatment did not show notable improvement with regards to root proximity to the cortical plates. The prevention of further complications was highlighted, including the use of dual retention, remote monitoring, frequent follow-up appointments and the importance of developing clear guidelines for monitoring patients in retention for treating clinicians and general dentists to promote early detection of adverse changes.

An assessment of the impact of adhesive coverage and wire type on fixed retainer failures and force propagation along two types of orthodontic retainer wires: an in vitro study.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the force required to promote the failure of fixed orthodontic retainers with different adhesive (composite) coverage and to assess the presence and extent of force propagation with two different orthodontic retainer wires. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ortho-FlexTech and Ortho-Care Perform (0.0175 inches), each of 15-cm length, were bonded on acrylic blocks with different adhesive surface diameters (2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm). The samples (n = 160) were subjected to a tensile pull-out test, and debonding force was recorded. Fixed retainers using two different wires and 4-mm adhesive diameter were bonded on acrylic bases resembling a maxillary dental arch (n = 72). The retainers were loaded occluso-apically until the first sign of failure while being video recorded. Individual frames of the recordings were extracted and compared. A force propagation scoring index was developed to quantify the extent of force transmission under load. RESULTS: A 4-mm adhesive surface diameter required the highest debonding force for both retainer wires with significant differences compared with 2 mm (P < .001; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.69, 21.69) and 3 mm (P = .026; 95% CI: 0.60, 13.59). Force propagation scores were significantly higher for Ortho-Care Perform. CONCLUSIONS: Based on this laboratory-based assessment, consideration should be given to the fabrication of maxillary fixed retainers using a minimum of 4-mm diameter composite coverage on each tooth. Force appeared to propagate more readily with Ortho-Care Perform than with a flexible chain alternative. This may risk stress accumulation at the terminal ends with potential for associated unwanted tooth movement in the presence of intact fixed retainers.

The effectiveness of adjuncts or alternatives to the use of orthodontic retainers in preserving posttreatment outcomes: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to systematically evaluate the efficacy of adjuncts or alternatives to mechanical retention in preserving postorthodontic treatment outcomes. METHODS: Electronic databases, unpublished literature, and ongoing trials were searched until July 22, 2022 (PROSPERO CRD42021291165). Randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials investigating the efficacy of adjuncts and alternatives to conventional orthodontic retainers were included. Stability, periodontal effects, cost-effectiveness, and patient-reported outcomes were to be evaluated. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and Risk of Bias In Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) were used for risk of bias assessment. The certainty of the evidence was appraised using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. Exploratory sensitivity analysis was undertaken to calculate the weighted treatment effects of the intervention. RESULTS: A total of 5128 records were screened. Seven trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria, of which 5 were randomized controlled trials. Five trials were judged to be at high risk of bias, with 2 studies of unclear risk of bias. Heterogeneity between the limited number of included studies precluded the conduct of meta-analysis. Circumferential supracrestal fibrotomy resulted in less increase in the mandibular Little's Irregularity Index (mean difference, -2.30 mm; 95% confidence interval, -2.86 to -1.74). The overall level of evidence was of very low quality. CONCLUSIONS: Adjuncts and alternatives to mechanical retention have promise, but based on the existing evidence, the reliance on mechanical retention cannot be reduced. There is weak evidence supporting circumferential supracrestal fibrotomy to improve stability outcomes. Further high-quality prospective research focusing on the predictability and acceptability of these approaches is needed.

An analysis of dental articles in predatory journals and associated online engagement.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to assess the extent of social media sharing of presumed predatory (PP) dental journals and to compare level of engagement, type of accounts and characteristics of the articles published in presumed legitimate (PL) and PP journals. METHODS: Six hashtags were searched across three social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook and Twitter). Data extraction was performed and journals were classified into PP or PL in a multistep approach using MEDLINE, Beall's list and Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ). A checklist was created and used for studies not found in the aforementioned recognized databases. RESULTS: A total of 1742 posts were identified, with the majority (94%) found on Instagram. Of the identified journals, 15.6% were PP. Over one-third of articles from PP journals (35.42%) were indexed on PubMed. The majority of presumed legitimate publications were published in dental specialty only journals (56.44%), compared to 24% in the PP group. The majority of accounts were those of healthcare professionals with most publications related to prosthodontics and implantology (26.3%) and restorative and esthetic dentistry (14.4%), in PL and PP groups, respectively. Similar median number of followers/friends and comments were found among the PL and PP groups. CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight that presumed predatory publications have comparable reach to PL journals on social media risking the sharing of unreliable and misleading information. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Researchers, students and social media users should be capable of identifying presumed predatory dental publications. Means of moderating the influence of these publications should be explored.

Blanket or tailored prescription of retainers in orthodontics: a questionnaire-based study.

OBJECTIVE: To explore retainer protocols and how they are influenced by orthodontic presentation and the nature of occlusal correction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prepiloted 45-item online questionnaire targeting orthodontists was developed. The questionnaire covered clinical preferences in terms of retainer type, fabrication, and follow-up during retention; the clinical indications for adjunctive surgical procedures; and the use of active designs to mitigate relapse in specific malocclusions. RESULTS: A total of 206 responses were obtained. The majority of the respondents prescribed maxillary removable and mandibular fixed retainers, with almost half (49.1%) reviewing patients for more than 1 year primarily in person (95.1%). The majority prescribed vacuum-formed (69.6%) 1-mm-thick (44.3%) retainers. Only 37.3% were aware of the type of material used, with polyethylene terephthalate glycol copolymer, followed by polypropylene, being the most common. Hawley retainers were preferred following nonsurgical maxillary expansion and with suboptimal interdigitation. A preference for clear retainers and/or fixed retainers was found in open-bite cases and deep-bite cases. Supracrestal fiberotomy was prescribed commonly (61.1%) for rotations greater than 90°. No retainer was rarely prescribed except after the correction of an anterior crossbite. CONCLUSIONS: Blanket prescription of orthodontic retention is common, with limited awareness of clear plastic retainer materials. Future trials evaluating the effectiveness of approaches for retainer prescription based on the presenting malocclusion would be timely.

The reach, influence and tenor of professional orthodontic societies on social media: A cross-sectional content analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Orthodontic societies should support the profession and improve patient awareness. We aimed to investigate the scope and influence of orthodontic societies on social media. METHOD: A total of 120 orthodontic societies were identified on the World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO) affiliates list. Presence of orthodontic societies on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter was ascertained. All societies with Instagram accounts were included for further analysis of the nature and content of posts as well as user engagement. Pilot coding and thematic analysis were undertaken (n=200 posts). The most recent 20% of the total number of posts for each account were then analysed for content. RESULTS: Only 10 (8.3%), 34 (28.3%) and 52 (43.3%) orthodontic societies had accounts on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, respectively. A total of 2124 Instagram posts were analysed. On average, 318 posts were identified per account (range=1 to 1901). The average number of followers was 2337 (range=85 to 11,400) with average user engagement of 1.25% (range=0.0%-7.17%). A total of 6 themes (subthemes; n=28) were identified including "announcements on professional events" (51.6%), "patient education, enlightenment and commendation" (26%), "running and operation of the society" (9.1%), "highlighting research and evidence" (3.1%), "COVID-related advice and updates" (4%) and "observance and commemoration" (10.4%). The posts targeting patients were limited (18.7%). CONCLUSIONS: The limited reach of the accounts of international orthodontic societies highlights the need to develop a more effective and influential social media presence. Orthodontic societies should involve members, providers and patients in developing more effective social media resources.

The influence of mobile applications and social media-based interventions in producing behavior change among orthodontic patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this project was to systematically review the effectiveness of mobile applications and social media-based interventions in producing a behavioral change in orthodontic patients. METHODS: Electronic databases and reference lists of relevant studies were searched on March 1, 2021, with no language restrictions (PROSPERO: CRD42019157298). Randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials assessing the impact of mobile applications and social media-based interventions on orthodontic patients were identified. Primary outcomes included adherence to wear, appointment attendance, knowledge, oral health-related behaviors, oral hygiene levels, periodontal outcomes, and related iatrogenic effects. The quality of the included trials was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tools. A weighted treatment effect of interventions on periodontal outcomes was calculated. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. RESULTS: A total of 3617 articles were identified. Of these, 16 studies (14 randomized controlled trials and 2 nonrandomized controlled trials) were deemed eligible. Nine randomized controlled trials were judged to be of either low or unclear risk of bias. The intervention was favored in relation to gingival and plaque indexes, standardized mean difference: -0.81 (95% confidence intervals [CI], -1.35 to -0.28) and -0.91 (95% CI, -1.64 to -0.19), respectively. However, no significant effect was observed in bleeding on probing (standardized mean difference: -0.22; 95% CI, -0.5 to 0.05). The level of evidence was high in probing depth and bleeding on probing outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: A very low to moderate level of evidence supports the effects of mobile applications and social media-based interventions in producing positive behavioral changes in orthodontic patients. Further high-quality trials would assist in further elucidating the potential of these approaches to influence orthodontic treatment outcomes and experiences.

The nature and accuracy of Instagram posts concerning marketed orthodontic products.

OBJECTIVES: To scrutinize claims contained within Instagram posts related to six popular marketed orthodontic products. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three hundred publicly available Instagram posts were identified using the following Instagram hashtags: #carrieremotion, #damonbraces, #invisalign, #acceledent, #propelorthodontics, and #myobrace. Pilot coding was undertaken on a subset of claims (n = 50) and a coding guide was developed. The associated claims were categorized under 24 recognized themes and their accuracy assessed on a five-point scale. RESULTS: Of 1730 posts screened, 300 were included for analysis. The majority of posts were based on photographs (n = 244, 81.3%) with the remainder (n = 56, 18.7%) including videos. Half of the posts involved a picture of the product in isolation (n = 150, 50%), with clinical cases presented in a minority (n = 99, 33%). Overall, 472 claims were included with treatment duration being the most frequent theme (n = 125, 26.5%). In terms of accuracy, most of the claims were judged to be "false" (n = 283, 60%) with less than 2% considered "objectively true." CONCLUSIONS: Most of the claims relating to six popular marketed orthodontic products concerned treatment duration. The vast majority of these claims were not supported by evidence and were judged to be false. Efforts should be made to promote the provision of accurate orthodontic information and to verify marketing claims on social media platforms.

The effectiveness of a bespoke mobile application in improving adherence with removable orthodontic retention over 12 months: A randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: The primary aim was to analyze the effect of providing a mobile application (My Retainers) on adherence with removable retention. METHODS: Eighty-four participants planned for thermoplastic retainers were randomly allocated to 2 groups. The intervention group was given access to a bespoke mobile application, while the control group was not given access. Baseline data were obtained at the removal of orthodontic appliances with follow-up at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months. The primary outcome was objectively assessed retainer wear recorded using a TheraMon microelectronic sensor (MC Technology GmbH, Hargelsberg, Austria). Secondary outcomes were stability and periodontal implications. RESULTS: The objectively assessed wear time at 12 months was low in both groups, being marginally higher in the intervention (median, 3.09 h/d; interquartile range, 8.1) than the control group (median, 1.44 h/d; interquartile range, 9.22) with no between-group statistical difference (P = 0.30, 95% confidence interval [CI], -3.91 to 1.19). No statistically significant difference was identified between the groups in terms of stability and periodontal outcomes. Improvement in plaque scores (P <0.0001; 95% CI, -0.20 to 0.15) and bleeding on probing (P <0.0001, 95% CI, -0.23 to -0.12) was noted over time with no periodontal attachment loss detected over the study period. CONCLUSIONS: Provision of the mobile application did not lead to improved adherence with thermoplastic retainer wear. Similarly, no benefit in respect of either occlusal stability or periodontal health was observed over the 12-month study period. Further novel approaches to improve adherence with retainer wear and oral hygiene measures are required. REGISTRATION: NCT03224481. PROTOCOL: Not published. FUNDING: This work was supported by funding from the European Orthodontic Society.

Removable retention: enhancing adherence and the remit of shared decision-making.

Patient adherence to removable retainer wear is integral to the long-term success of retention regimes. We discuss the factors influencing removable retainer wear, the methods of gauging wear levels, approaches to enhance adherence and the quality of online available information concerning retention. The potential value of patient involvement in approaches to retention within a shared decision-making framework and motivational interviewing are also highlighted.

Orthodontic retention protocols: an evidence-based overview.

In view of the diversity of orthodontic presentations, a single optimal retention protocol does not exist, with approaches tailored based on pre-treatment characteristics, treatment-induced changes and general patient characteristics. However, orthodontic practitioners should be responsive to the best available evidence to formulate optimal retention protocols in terms of appliance type, design and regimen, in particular. Based on a comprehensive search strategy, we discuss fundamental aspects concerning orthodontic retention of particular interest both to orthodontists and general dentists. These include stability and periodontal outcomes, cost-effectiveness, patient experiences, survival and failure rates of retainers, and the duration of retention.

Development of 'My Retainers' mobile application: Triangulation of two qualitative methods.

OBJECTIVE: Diligent wear of removable orthodontic retainers requires prolonged adherence and is invariably necessary to preserve optimal results. Patient-informed behaviour-change interventions represent a promising and novel means of enhancing adherence to removable retainer wear. The aim of this study was to describe the development of a patient-informed mobile application designed to enhance retainer wear. METHODS: App development encompassed consideration of participant preferences, social media posts, available interventions and behaviour change theories. Qualitative methods including analysis of publicly-available retainer-related posts on Twitter (n = 827) and one-to-one interviews were undertaken. Audio-recorded one-to-one interviews were undertaken to identify patient preferences in relation to features, content and design of the application. A criterion-based purposive sample of participants wearing vacuum-formed retainers for at least 4 years was used (n = 15). Thematic analysis of transcribed data was undertaken. These data were triangulated to inform design and content of the application. RESULTS: The need to facilitate communication with the treating clinician, responsive reminder and tracking systems, and access to useful and engaging written and visual information, in addition to other personalised and interactive features were considered important. Concerns related to retainer wear shared on Twitter informed an exhaustive list of frequently-asked questions. Application features were mapped to relevant theoretical constructs. Determinants of existing behavioural change theories were also used to link application features to retainer wear and maintenance. CONCLUSIONS: A holistic process involving both patient and professional input can be useful in informing the development of mobile applications. The orthodontic application ("My Retainers") will undergo further scrutiny in relation to its effectiveness in inducing behavioural change and concerning patient experiences prior to finalisation.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of a tailored mobile application in increasing the duration of wear of thermoplastic retainers: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The 'My Retainers' mobile application is a patient-informed intervention designed to enhance removable retainer wear and associated patient experiences during the retention phase. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of receiving the 'My Retainers' application on objectively assessed thermoplastic retainer (TPR) wear time, stability, periodontal outcomes, patient experiences, and knowledge related to retainers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty-four participants planned for removable retention with TPRs were assigned either to receive the 'My Retainers' application or to control not receiving electronic reminders during the 3-month period. Randomization was based on computer-generated random numbers and allocation was concealed using opaque, sealed envelopes. The primary outcome was objectively assessed retainer wear recorded using an embedded TheraMon® micro-electronic sensor. Secondary outcomes, including irregularity of the maxillary and mandibular incisors, plaque levels, bleeding on probing and probing depth, were assessed at baseline and 3-month follow-up; and analysed using a series of mixed models. Experiences and knowledge related to orthodontic retainers were recorded using questionnaires. The outcome assessor was blinded when possible. RESULTS: Receipt of the mobile application resulted in slightly higher median wear time (0.91 hours/day); however, this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -2.19, 4.01). No significant differences were found between the treatment groups in terms of stability (P = 0.92; 95% CI: -0.03, 0.04), plaque levels (P = 0.44; 95% CI: -0.07, 0.03), bleeding on probing (P = 0.61; 95% CI: -0.05, 0.03) and probing depth (P = 0.79; 95% CI: -0.09, 0.07). Furthermore, similar levels of patient experiences (P = 0.94) and knowledge related to retainers (P = 0.26) were found. However, marginally better levels of knowledge were identified in the intervention group. No harms were observed. LIMITATIONS: A relatively short follow-up period with the study confined to a single-center in a university-based hospital. CONCLUSIONS: Provision of the bespoke 'My Retainers' application did not lead to an improvement in adherence with TPR wear over a 3-month follow-up period. Further refinement and research are required to develop and investigate means of enhancing adherence levels. CLINICAL REGISTRATION: NCT03224481.

Factors influencing adherence to vacuum-formed retainer wear: A qualitative study.

OBJECTIVE: To explore factors influencing adherence to vacuum-formed retainer wear over a minimum period of four years. DESIGN: A qualitative study based on a randomised controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of orthodontic retainers. SETTING: Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London. PARTICIPANTS: Fifteen participants wearing vacuum-formed retainers for at least four years. METHODS: One-to-one semi-structured interviews were undertaken on a criterion-based purposive sample of participants wearing vacuum-formed retainers. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Framework Methodology. RESULTS: High self-reported levels of adherence in the early stages of retention were linked to a desire to maintain orthodontic outcomes and the negative perception of potential post-treatment changes. However, adherence typically reduced over time due to a combination of factors including the negative impact of retainers on quality of life and pragmatic issues related to retainer wear. Network support was found to be important in the short and long term, with instances of self-directed wear and negative beliefs concerning the importance of retainer wear and predisposition to post-treatment changes. Lack of follow-up appointments and immaturity of participants prompted independent decisions to cease retainer wear. CONCLUSIONS: Six key influencers of prolonged adherence with vacuum-formed retainer wear were identified. Future strategies to improve adherence should account for these while also being responsive to time elapsed since debond and patient age.

How well are dental qualitative studies involving interviews and focus groups reported?

OBJECTIVE: Qualitative research is being increasingly ingrained within dentistry. The aim of the study was to assess whether recent qualitative studies involving interviews and focus groups in the dental literature comply with the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist. METHODS: Qualitative studies in dentistry, involving interviews and focus groups with patients, parents or caregivers published between January 2017 and June 2018 were identified through electronic and hand searching with no language restrictions. The characteristics of the included studies and adherence to the COREQ checklist were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 7137 studies were identified. Following initial screening, 244 full-text articles were obtained; of these, 100 met the inclusion criteria. The majority of the identified studies were in the field of dental public health (30%) with just half published in dental journals. The median sample size was 20 participants (IQR 38.5). Data analysis was most commonly undertaken using thematic analysis or the framework approach 59% (53/90), with purposive sampling used in 54% (36/67) of those describing sampling methods. On average, 17 (±5.3) of 32 of the COREQ checklist items were presented within the individual studies. Overall, the quality of reporting of individual studies was typically categorised as either moderate (51%) or poor (34%). CONCLUSION: As qualitative research in dentistry becomes more established, improved adherence to the COREQ checklist should be encouraged to ensure transparent reporting, in order to maximally influence the delivery of care, policy and clinical practice.