Step-by-step practical procedures to close midline diastema with a vacuum-formed retainer

Abstract

Midline diastema affects dental esthetics. Clinical management of midline diastema includes prosthodontic options and orthodontic space closure. This study described a simple yet effective step-by-step practical procedure to close a midline diastema with a vacuum-formed retainer and elastics. The diastema was closed in two weeks; a lingual fixed wire was bonded another two weeks after the space closure for stability. The novelty of this paper includes the inside-out perforation of a vacuum-formed retainer and the formation of a mechanical lock enhancing the mechanical strength of the elastic hooks. This method is cost-effective and time-efficient for closing a midline diastema.