Clinical integration and utilization patterns of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) fixed lingual retainers: A national survey of orthodontists.

CONTEXT: Although the clinical use of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)-fabricated fixed lingual retainers has increased globally, evidence about their adoption among orthodontists in the Middle East remains limited.

AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate current knowledge levels, attitudes, and clinical practices of Iraqi orthodontists regarding CAD/CAM fixed lingual retainers and, which demographic or professional factors influence their clinical use.

SETTINGS AND

DESIGN

Over a period of 3 months, a 25-item questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms to collect data on clinical preferences and CAD/CAM use and awareness.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: Over a period of 3 months, a 25-item questionnaire was distributed to the Iraqi orthodontists via Google Forms to collect data on clinical preferences and CAD/CAM use and awareness.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

RESULTS

Only 12.6% of the participants had incorporated CAD/CAM retainers into routine clinical work. After Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, CAD/CAM implementation remained significantly associated with practice setting. Orthodontists in private practice were the primary adopters of CAD/CAM technology.

CONCLUSION

The preference of Iraqi orthodontists for CAD/CAM retention technology over conventional procedures remains limited. Expanding continuing education initiatives and including digital workflows training in postgraduate orthodontic programs may have potential for broader clinical implementation.