Toward a perspective on orthodontic retention?

Retention is one of the most difficult challenges facing the clinician in orthodontics. In this article we collate current knowledge regarding the origin of orthodontic relapse and attempt to rationalize the necessary factors in planning orthodontic retention. Despite extensive research, the various elements leading to relapse of treated malocclusions are incompletely understood, giving rise to wide variation in retention protocols among clinicians. Informed consent-with emphasis on the features of the original malocclusion and the patient's growth pattern, the type of treatment performed, the need for adjunctive surgical procedures, the type of retainer, and the duration of retention-should be obtained during the planning of the retention phase. True perspective on orthodontic retention is lacking and there is a great need for further research to ensure that evidence-based clinical practice is adopted in retention strategies.