What does a lingual retainer bond to?

A lingual retainer is a type of orthodontic appliance that is commonly used to stabilize teeth after orthodontic treatment. It is a thin wire that is bonded to the back (lingual surface) of the anterior teeth, typically from canine to canine. This positioning serves to maintain alignment and prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions after braces are removed.

Choosing the option referring to the bonding from canine to canine on the lingual surfaces of the anterior teeth accurately reflects the function of a lingual retainer. By securing it in this way, it closely follows the natural contour of the teeth while minimizing visibility, making it an effective solution for retention in the anterior region.

The other options misrepresent the bonding sites and applications for a lingual retainer. For instance, bonding to the buccal surface of incisor teeth does not align with the purpose of a lingual retainer, as it should be positioned on the lingual side. Similarly, bonding to all molars or only considering posterior teeth does not serve the intended function of retaining anterior teeth, which is where significant alignment changes typically occur following orthodontic treatment.