What is the definition of relapse in orthodontics?

What is the definition of relapse in orthodontics?

• A. Period of the fixation of the result related to the orthodontic treatment
• B. Complications during the orthodontic treatment
• C. Pathological mobility of teeth
• D. Return of malocclusion after orthodontic treatment

Answer: (D)

Relapse is the tendency for teeth to return toward their pretreatment malocclusion after active treatment has ended and the appliances are removed. This captures the defining outcome you’re looking for: the reversion of the corrected alignment once the retention phase begins or ends, due to the natural recoil of the periodontal ligaments, occlusal forces, ongoing growth in some patients, and the patient’s adherence to wearing retainers. Retention exists to counteract relapse by stabilizing the teeth in their new positions for a time. It isn’t describing a period of fixation itself, complications during treatment, or pathological tooth mobility from disease.

Relapse is the tendency for teeth to return toward their pretreatment malocclusion after active treatment has ended and the appliances are removed. This captures the defining outcome you’re looking for: the reversion of the corrected alignment once the retention phase begins or ends, due to the natural recoil of the periodontal ligaments, occlusal forces, ongoing growth in some patients, and the patient’s adherence to wearing retainers. Retention exists to counteract relapse by stabilizing the teeth in their new positions for a time. It isn’t describing a period of fixation itself, complications during treatment, or pathological tooth mobility from disease.