equilibrium between the available periodontal support and the forces acting on the teeth may result in positional changes. This frequently leads to

trauma from occlusion, a situation that might enhance destruction of the periodontium if plaque–associated inflammatory lesions of the gingiva are

present1. Anterior teeth are specially prone to elongation since they are not protected by occlusal forces and have no anteroposterior contacts

inhibiting migration. Masticatory forces are predominantly anterolaterally directed and little resistance exists, particularly if there is already an

increased overjet. With progressive bone loss, the center of resistance moves apically2 and the forces acting on the crowns generate a larger

moment, adding to the progressive displacement.

Intrusion, retraction, and/or uprighting of incisors seem to be the logical solution to the orthodontic problem of these patients when considered from

causative, esthetic, and functional points of view. However, orthodontic correction of malaligned, tipped, or spaced teeth with horizontal and

vertical bone losses may also be related to improvement of bone support. Ceraci3, and Brown4, even suggest that orthodontic correction may

contribute to regeneration of periodontal tissue. On the other hand, orthodontic treatment, especially that involving intrusive movements, does

include a risk of aggravation of the periodontal condition 5,6.

The following case report describes the interface between orthodontics and periodontics in the treatment of an adult patient.