Retention and Relapse 1 article

Retention and Relapse addresses what happens after active orthodontic tooth movement ends. Fixed or removable retainers are used to limit unwanted movement while periodontal and occlusal tissues adapt, but wear schedules, appliance failure, hygiene and long-term biological change can influence stability. Relapse may reflect incomplete retention, growth, ageing or the original malocclusion rather than a single cause. Post-treatment stability, retainer use and decisions about relapse are the focus after active braces or aligners have completed their work.