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Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontics | Date Posted: 12/1/2001
| Question
Are there any risks involved in orthodontic treatment?
| Answer
Yes. Successful orthodontic treatment depends on the understanding and cooperation of the patient. Although there are many benefits to be gained from orthodontic treatment, there are also potential risks associated with this type of treatment. Although these risks are generally not serious, they still should be considered when making the decision to undergo orthodontic treatment.
Oral health — Tooth decay, gum disease, and permanent markings (decalcification) on the teeth can occur if orthodontic patients eat foods containing excessive sugar. This may occur without orthodontic treatment but the risk is greater when wearing braces. Inflammation of the gums and loss of supporting bone can occur if bacterial plaque is not removed regularly with good oral hygiene. Be sure to continue to visit your family dentist at least every six months while orthodontic treatment is progressing.
Relapse — Teeth may have a tendency to change their position after treatment. This is called relapse. The faithful wearing of retainers should reduce this tendency. Teeth can however, move at any time whether or not they have been orthodontically treated. This may be caused by eruption of wisdom teeth, growth and maturational changes, mouth breathing, playing a musical instrument and other oral habits.
Root shortening — Some patients suffer problems in the jaw joints, including joint pain, clicking, headaches, or ear problems. Generally, the literature demonstrates that orthodontics play a neutral role in regard to jaw joint problems. Therefore, these problems may occur with or without orthodontic treatment. However, any of the above symptoms should be reported to the orthodontist.
Tooth vitality — Where a tooth has been injured by a previous accident or contains a large filling, damage to the nerve of the tooth may result. In rare instances, this may lead to loss of tooth vitality and discolouration of the tooth requiring root canal treatment or other dental treatment to restore the colour of the tooth.
Treatment time — The total time required to complete treatment may exceed the estimate. Poor cooperation, poor oral hygiene, broken appliances and missed appointments can lengthen the treatment time and affect the quality of the result. Cooperation throughout treatment is your contribution to a pleasing appearance and good bite. Failure to cooperate may require the orthodontist to change the goals of your treatment.
General health — General medical problems can affect orthodontic treatment. You should keep your orthodontist informed of any changes to your medical health or any medication you may be taking.
Soft tissue damage — Braces may cause some irritation to the soft tissue of the mouth. If improperly handled, the headgear may also cause injury to the face or eyes. Patients are warned not to wear headgear during times of rough play or competitive activity. Although our headgears are equipped with a safety system, we urge caution at all times.
Mouthguards - It is strongly recommended that you obtain a special mouthguard if you play any form of sport that may result in injury to the teeth. Ask your orthodontist to provide the mouthguard as the braces are fitted.
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More questions in this category:
What is orthodontics?
What is a malocclusion?
What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
Who can benefit from orthodontics?
When should orthodontic treatment begin?
What are ‘braces’?
How long will I need to wear braces?
Are there any risks involved in orthodontic treatment?
Who does Orthodontics?
Can anyone have orthodontic treatment?
Where may I obtain more information on Orthodontics?
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