Borderline Orthodontic Cases - Diagnosis and Management: A Review

Borderline cases are in which the tooth size arch length discrepancy lies between extraction and non extraction range, therefore there is always an uncertainty of attempting extraction. Because such cases have balanced face and pleasant profile, there is no set of values which can infallibly spell out treatment procedure. We must consider growth potential or possibilities of treatment as well as limitations. Conflicting interests are weighed with the desirability of a stable result from the standpoint of the arch length problem and the possibility of improvement in lip and lower face contour by retaining all dental units. Extractions may be assorted to at the discretion of the operator. Many considerations are necessary to decide on a borderline case. No single diagnostic criterion can be relied upon. The desired final location of teeth is predicated upon satisfying esthetics, functional balance, and essential stability following retention procedures. All three requirements are equal and of commensurate importance. It is necessary to project and visualize treatment procedures, results of active treatment and the amount of expected post retention stability. Consequently this exercise projects treatment in terms of time since time is the ultimate judge.