Oral Surgery · single question
What is the hierarchy of stability following orthognathic surgery?
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Correct answer: A. Skeletal stability > Dental stability > Soft tissue stability
The classic Proffit/White hierarchy of stability after orthognathic surgery is: Skeletal (bone) is MOST stable once fixed, followed by dental (teeth can shift), and soft tissue is LEAST stable (lips, cheeks adapt over time). A is correct: Skeletal > Dental > Soft tissue. This matters clinically because soft tissue changes are harder to predict and maintain long-term.