American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

When a canine erupts mesially and is then distalized, the impact on the surrounding bone can be significant. Ridge loss refers to the resorption of alveolar bone that can occur during orthodontic treatment, particularly in response to the movement of teeth. Studies have shown that during the mesial eruption phase of a canine, the adjacent alveolar bone may undergo changes due to the forces acting on it.

After a duration of 4 years, if the canine has been successfully distalized back into alignment, a small amount of ridge loss may be expected. In this context, evidence suggests that around 1% of ridge loss may occur as a result of the orthodontic movements involved. This percentage is consistent with the biological responses observed during tooth movement and the remodeling of bone that accompanies these movements.

The understanding of ridge loss is important in orthodontics as it informs practitioners about potential complications in long-term tooth stability and the integrity of the supporting structures. Furthermore, the lower percentage indicates that while ridge loss is a concern, it may be manageable with proper treatment planning and techniques that minimize excessive forces on the alveolar bone.