[The stability of orthodontic treatment over the long term].

The long term stability of orthodontic treatment was evaluated in 7 orthodontic patients who were three to 12 years out of retention. Dental relationships and irregularities in the dental arch were recorded and scored on study models taken prior to orthodontic treatment, at the end of active treatment, and at long term follow up. Lateral skull radiographs taken at the start of active treatment were also analysed. According to the (mal)occlusion observed on the post-retention study models it appeared that the sample could be subdivided into three groups. The group of patients with relatively good results after active treatment showed less relapse than the group with relatively moderate results after active treatment. The patients with relatively good treatment results were mostly treated with extractions followed by fixed appliances in both jaws. This observation indicates that treatment planning in this group generally was correct. Patients showing skeletal Class II features before orthodontic treatment showed most relapse in overjet and overbite.