Orthodontic relapse occurs when a patient's teeth move back toward their original positions after they have completed orthodontic treatment.
The primary cause of an orthodontic relapse is the failure to wear retainers as directed following the conclusion of orthodontic treatment.
Consistent use of retainers is essential to prevent the teeth from shifting back, thus avoiding orthodontic relapse. Patients who experience an orthodontic relapse are often good candidates for clear aligner therapy. Since these patients are already accustomed to orthodontic procedures, and their teeth have only shifted slightly from the ideal positions, they typically respond well to treatment with clear aligners.