Relapse Retention and Retainers in Orthodontics

Retention is the phase of orthodontic treatment which maintains the teeth in their orthodontically corrected positions following the cessation of active orthodontic tooth movement. Orthodontic retainers resist the tendency of teeth to return to their pre-treatment positions under the influence of periodontal, occlusal and soft tissue forces, and continuing dentofacial growth. Very few prospective controlled studies have evaluated the effectiveness of retention. In addition, very little is k...