Custom 3D-Printed retainers could outlast standard wires after braces
NCT ID NCT06529601
First seen Jul 09, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study compares two types of fixed retainers used after braces to keep teeth aligned: a custom-made CAD/CAM retainer (Keeppy) and a standard braided wire retainer. Researchers want to see which one breaks or detaches less often over 6 months and 2 years, and which one keeps gums healthier. The trial involves 54 people aged 13 to 20 who have just finished orthodontic treatment.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- CAD/CAM mandibular fixed retainer (Keeppy)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could show that custom-made retainers are more durable and better for gum health than standard wire retainers, improving long-term orthodontic outcomes.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, single-center trial with only 54 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The custom retainer may not prove superior or could have unexpected issues.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
-
About 54 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
-
Feb 2025
- Expected to finish
-
Aug 2028
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
-
Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
-
13 to 20 years
- Sex
-
Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients who have completed fixed orthodontic therapy between the ages of 13 and 20 years; * Patients whose parents will sign the informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of dental anomalies in number (excess or deficiency) in the lower anterior teeth * Patients with metal allergies.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for Orthodontic retainers are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
-
The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
-
The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
-
A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Orthodontic Clinic, Division of Dentistry, Careggi University Hospital
RECRUITINGFlorence, Italy
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.