Positive Effects of Orthodontics
Orthodontics is essential in correcting teeth misalignment, addressing the primary causes of these irregularities, and restoring facial harmony for patients. This correction comes with a variety of benefits, including:
- Proper occlusion of the teeth.
- Enhanced abilities for chewing and speaking.
- Improved psychological well-being, as patients often experience increased confidence in their smile and appearance.
- Reduced damage to teeth resulting from poor occlusion.
- Prevention of cavities, gum disease, and bone loss supporting the teeth, made easier through improved cleanliness post-alignment.
Negative Effects of Orthodontics
The negative effects of orthodontic treatment can be categorized as follows:
Pain and Discomfort
The response to orthodontic treatment varies among individuals, depending on the type of appliance used and each person’s pain threshold. It is worth noting that over-the-counter pain relievers can be utilized to alleviate discomfort and pressure experienced on the teeth during treatment.
Changes in Tooth Vitality
The installation of braces can exacerbate pre-existing dental issues such as trauma and cavities since the movement of teeth may lead to, in rare cases, discoloration or the necessity for root canal treatment.
Shortening of Tooth Roots
During orthodontic treatment, the roots of teeth may shorten as the movement causes certain layers of bone to dissolve along the path of the shifting tooth, while new bone forms behind it. This may lead to permanent loss of root length, potentially resulting in unstable teeth, though it typically does not cause serious issues.
Calcium Loss and Weakening of Teeth
Bacteria naturally proliferate in the oral cavity. With braces, maintaining oral hygiene becomes more challenging, allowing plaque to accumulate around the brackets and increasing acid production, which can lead to cavities, including those on the front teeth. This challenge can diminish the cosmetic results expected from orthodontic treatment.
Gum Problems
Gums may swell during orthodontic treatment due to the accumulation of dental plaque, which usually subsides within 1-2 weeks following bracket removal. It is important to note that pre-existing gum recession may worsen with tooth movement, but this risk can be mitigated by maintaining proper oral hygiene and having regular dental check-ups to ensure teeth are clean.
Mouth Ulcers and Sensitivity
Oral ulcers may result from the extension of orthodontic wires or from friction caused by other components of the braces against the oral tissues, such as the inside of cheeks or under the tongue. Sensitivity in oral tissues is rarely a direct result of the metals used in braces, as a significantly higher concentration of nickel is required for oral sensitivities compared to skin reactions. However, sensitivity can occur due to other factors, such as rubber materials used in tooth movement or gloves worn by the orthodontist.
Extraoral Effects of Orthodontics
In rare instances, orthodontic treatment may lead to effects beyond the oral cavity, which include:
- Infection transmission to the patient if the instruments used in the clinic are not properly sterilized.
- Infective endocarditis if the patient has pre-existing heart valve issues.