The basic motion of controlled tipping primarily involves what type of movement?

Controlled tipping is a fundamental orthodontic movement that combines both rotation and translation. In orthodontics, when a tooth is subjected to controlled tipping, it rotates around a center of resistance while simultaneously moving through space.

This means that as the tooth tips or tilts in response to an applied force, it does not simply pivot around a single point; instead, it also shifts position within the arch. This is a practical method used to achieve desired tooth angulation and positioning within the dental arch while maintaining appropriate control of the overall movement.

The combination of rotation and translation is crucial for achieving optimal tooth alignment and ensuring that forces are applied effectively to achieve desired orthodontic outcomes. This makes Option C the most accurate description of the basic motion involved in controlled tipping.