What are the risks associated with orthodontic treatment?
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 stains (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. Wearing orthodontic 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 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.
