Retention Phase of Orthodontics

• It is the functional adaptation period, following active orthodontic phase.

Biological basis of retention

• Within a short period of time , most of the periodontal fibers realign themselves, the supra-alveolar and transeptal fibers change very slowly.

• Woven bone matures into bundle bone.

Factors affecting retention planning• 1- Original mal-occlusion.

• 2- lengths of cusps, relation of • inclined plane.• 3-status of perio-oral muscles.

• 4- Etiology of malocclusion.

• 5- Skeletal age of the patient.

Factors affecting retention planning

• 6- Cooperation of the patient.

• 7-Distance of the teeth movement.

• 8-Length of active period.

• 9- Status of cranio-facial growth.

• 10-Post-treatment occlusion.

• 11- Status of third molars

Types of retainers

• 1- Removable retainer.

• 2- Fixed retainer.

• 3- Positioner.

Duration of Retention

• 1- No Retention

• 2- Permanent Retention.

• 3- Temporary Retention.

Orthodontic Relapse

• Relapse is the loss of correction achieved through orthodontic treatment.

Common relapse problems

• 1-Collapse of mandibular expansion.

• 2- Relapse of corrected open –bite or deep bite.

• 3- Relapse of posterior cross- bite.

• 4- Relapse of corrected rotation, Re -apperance spacing or crowding

Etiology of relapse• 1-Improper orthodontic

diagnosis.

• 2- Inadequate