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Retention and stability--taking various treatment parameters into account
Günter Lang1, Günter Alfter, Gernot Göz
1Department of Orthodontics, University of Tübingen, Germany. GLang5@t-online.de
Summary
Orthodontic relapse is common, even with retention. Optimizing retention time, retainer type, and patient factors can significantly reduce post-treatment tooth movement and improve long-term stability.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Stability
- Post-treatment Relapse
Background:
- Orthodontic treatment aims for long-term tooth stability.
- Relapse after orthodontic treatment is a significant clinical concern.
- Understanding factors influencing relapse is crucial for effective retention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term stability of orthodontic treatment outcomes.
- To investigate the influence of retention time and retainer type on relapse.
- To identify patient-specific and treatment-related factors associated with relapse.
Main Methods:
- Examined 132 patients an average of 6 years post-orthodontic treatment.
- Measured therapeutic movements and post-therapeutic changes using dental casts.
- Analyzed relapse rates in relation to retention, gender, age, treatment duration, and extractions.
Main Results:
- Relapse occurred in 13% of measurements on average, even with retention.
- Shorter treatment times (<3 years) showed higher relapse rates (19%) compared to longer durations (>4 years, 13%).
- Specific patient groups (e.g., younger/older patients, males, non-extraction cases) exhibited higher relapse risks.
Conclusions:
- Retention time and retainer type are critical for preventing relapse.
- Fixed lingual retainers are preferred for anterior arch relapse risk, especially in males and non-extraction cases.
- Minimum retention of 2 years is recommended, with combined fixed and removable retainers potentially needed until the late twenties for optimal stability.