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Association between arch width changes and long-term stability 20 years after orthodontic treatment with and without
The Angle Orthodontist
|February 6, 2023
Summary
Long-term orthodontic stability was achieved in both extraction and non-extraction cases. Intermolar width changes during treatment influenced long-term stability, particularly in extraction cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Cast Analysis
- Long-term Stability Studies
Background:
- Orthodontic treatment aims for stable, functional, and aesthetic results.
- Understanding factors influencing long-term post-treatment stability is crucial for clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess 20-year orthodontic treatment stability.
- To determine the association between arch width changes and long-term stability.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 103 patients (Class I and II malocclusions).
- Dental casts analyzed pretreatment, posttreatment, and long-term postretention.
- Measurements included intercanine width, intermolar width, and Little's Irregularity Index.
Main Results:
- Long-term stability (average 17.2 years postretention) was observed in both extraction (55 patients) and non-extraction (48 patients) groups.
- Upper and lower arch irregularity index (LII) remained below 2.05 mm at long-term postretention.
- Intermolar width changes correlated with long-term stability in extraction cases.
Conclusions:
- Clinically relevant long-term orthodontic stability is achievable regardless of extraction status.
- Intermolar width and its changes during treatment are significant factors for long-term stability in extraction cases.
