Longitudinal measurements of tooth mobility following orthodontic treatment

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in tooth mobility following orthodontic treatment and to obtain information regarding the guideline of retainer wear duration during the post-treatment period. Methods: The sample consisted of twenty patients who had been treated with edgewise appliances. The mobility of the maxillary teeth from the central incisor to the first molar was measured bilaterally by way of the Periotest (R), a non-invasive, electronic device that provides an objective measurement of the reaction of the periodontium to a defined impact load. Tooth mobility was monitored at the time of the removal of the orthodontic appliances and subsequently at three-month intervals during the two years following appliance removal. Results: Tooth mobility decreased rapidly for the first six months and then decreased at a slower rate during the next six months; no statistically significant decrease in mobility was observed during the second year following appliance removal. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that adequate tooth stabilization is critical during the first six months following appliance removal and that continued wearing of retainers is recommended at least until twelve months after the completion of orthodontic treatment. (Korean J Orthod 2010;40(1):34-39)