Odontosteresis is a term derived from the combination of the Greek words "odonto," meaning tooth, and "steresis," meaning to suppress or restrict. It refers to a dental procedure or technique that involves the controlled delay or suppression of tooth eruption. Odontosteresis is often employed to correct various dental malocclusions or misalignments, particularly in cases where there is insufficient space or overcrowding in the mouth.
This technique typically utilizes appliances, such as braces, wires, or retainers, which exert continuous, gentle pressure to hinder or slow down the natural eruption of teeth. By delaying the eruption, odontosteresis allows for proper alignment and positioning of teeth within the jaw. It grants adequate time for other teeth to erupt, creates sufficient space for impacted teeth, or assists in resolving overcrowding issues.
Odontosteresis is frequently used in orthodontic treatments, where the primary objective is to achieve optimal dental alignment and occlusion. By applying strategic forces through the use of various orthodontic appliances, odontosteresis promotes favorable tooth movement, repositioning, and alignment. It enables the dentist or orthodontist to guide teeth into their desired position gradually, correcting dental irregularities, and enhancing overall oral health and aesthetics.
It is important to note that odontosteresis should always be conducted under the supervision and guidance of a qualified dental professional, usually an orthodontist. The dental practitioner considers various factors such as the patient's age, dental condition, severity of the misalignment, and treatment goals when implementing odontosteresis for optimal results.
