FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH RELAPSE AND DURATION OF ORTHODONTIC RETENTION
Keywords:
orthodontic retention, retention protocols, relapses after orthodontic therapy, retention outcomesAbstract
Introduction: The main aim of orthodontic therapy is not only to correct malocclusions but also to maintain the results achieved over time. Retention after orthodontic therapy plays a critical role in this process, preventing relapses and ensuring long-term stability.
The aim of this systematic literature review was to analyze the factors influencing the relapses after orthodontic treatment and duration of the retention.
Material and methods: A literature search was conducted covering publications between the period from 1990 to 2024, using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Data were systematically organized regarding the principles of retention, factors affecting retention success, duration of retention and future research directions.
Results: Literature reviews indicate that the most common causes of relapses after orthodontic therapy are the following: (1) Aging process; (2) Periodontal ligament and gingival fibers; (3) Soft-tissue maturation; (4) Occlusal factors; (5) Limits of the dentition; (6) Presence of third molars and (7) Maxillary and mandibular expansion. Also, there are many factors influencing on the duration of the retention after orthodontic therapy.
Conclusion: Retention in orthodontics is a process influenced by various factors: patient compliance, retention modalities, and retention duration. Although many retention strategies have been proposed and implemented, challenges such as relapse and negative effects of long-term retention remain significant. To optimize stability post-therapy and enhance patient satisfaction in orthodontic practice, focus should be on personalized retention protocols, digital monitoring systems and the effects of long-term retention.
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