TITLE:
Risk Factors of Relapse in Orthodontics: A Systematic Review
AUTHORS:
Romaissaa Dami, Kenza Khamlich, Farid Bourzgui
KEYWORDS:
Recurrences, Relapse, Risk Factors, Orthodontics, Corrective Orthodontics, Malocclusion
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.6,
June
18,
2026
ABSTRACT: Aim: This systematic review aimed to identify and synthesize the risk factors associated with orthodontic relapse. Methods: A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science to address the research question. The methodological quality of the selected articles was assessed using STROBE-based criteria. Results: The analysis of the eighteen studies included, identified several major risk factors associated with orthodontic relapse. These factors were categorized into general and local factors. General factors included age and gender. Local factors comprised treatment mechanics, therapeutic approach, quality of orthodontic finishing, extraction protocol, functional environment and its rehabilitation, presence of third molars, retention protocol, facial type, initial crowding, incisor inclination, curve of Spee, and presence of diastema. Conclusion: Multiple general and local factors contribute to orthodontic relapse. A comprehensive understanding of these determinants may assist clinicians in optimizing treatment planning, retention strategies, and long-term stability.