Benefits and Risks

A specialist orthodontist is a dentist who has done three extra years of full-time postgraduate study to become a registered specialist in Orthodontics (in much the same way that a cardiologist is a doctor who has become a specialist in heart problems). An orthodontist is the most qualified person to diagnose and treat any problems you may have with the alignment of your teeth.

Orthodontics plays an important role in improving overall oral health and harmony between the face and teeth for a beautiful smile, which enhances self-esteem.

Ideal chewing function can be achieved with a correct bite, healthy muscles and jaw joints. Well aligned teeth are easier to brush so the tendency to decay and likelihood of developing gum disease is reduced.

Correctly aligned teeth are less likely to experience abnormal wear. Due to individual conditions present and limitations of treatment imposed by nature each specific benefit may not be attainable for every patient.

Orthodontic appliances do not cause tooth decay. Gum disease, tooth decay and permanent markings (decalcification) on the teeth can occur if orthodontic patients eat food containing excessive sugar or do not brush their teeth frequently or properly. These same problems can occur without orthodontic treatment but the risk is greater to an individual wearing braces. It is imperative during orthodontic treatment that extra care be taken with oral hygiene and tooth brushing in particular.

Teeth have a tendency to change their positions after treatment. The long term, faithful wearing of retainers should reduce this tendency. Teeth move thorough out life, whether or not they have had orthodontic treatment. This is especially true during the late teen period when active growth of the facial bones is coming to an end. Throughout life the bite can change adversely from various causes such as eruption of wisdom teeth, growth or maturational changes, mouth breathing, playing of musical instruments and other oral habits. Very occasionally tooth movements will be severe enough to merit a further course of treatment to ensure a satisfactory result.

The health of the bone and gums which support the teeth may be affected by orthodontic tooth movement if a condition already exists, and in some rare cases where a condition does not appear to exist. In general, orthodontic treatment lessens the possibility of tooth loss or gum infection due to misalignment of the teeth or jaws. Inflammation of the gums and loss of supporting bone can occur if bacterial plaque is not removed daily with good oral hygiene. 

In some patients the length of the roots of the teeth may be shortened during orthodontic treatment. Some patients are more prone to this happening. It is nearly impossible to predict susceptibility. Usually this shortening does not have significant consequences, but on very rare occasions it may become a threat to the longevity of the teeth involved.

Occasionally patients may suffer pain or dysfunction in the Temporal Mandibular Joints (TMJ-jaw joints). This may present as joint pain, headaches, limited mouth opening or ear problems. These problems may occur with or without orthodontic treatment. Any of these symptoms should be reported to the orthodontist. Some patients are more susceptible to TMJ problems. Numerous studies have shown that the movement of the teeth during orthodontic treatment is unrelated to the onset of TMJ problems. Just as for painful conditions in other joints, discomfort in the TMJ can last from a few seconds to a few weeks.

The nerve of a tooth may have been traumatised by a previous accident, tooth decay or a deep filling. Orthodontic tooth movement can occasionally worsen this nerve health. Rarely, this may lead to loss of tooth vitality and discolouration requiring root canal treatment and other dental treatment to restore the colour of the tooth. 

If you have experienced any trauma to your teeth, please advise your orthodontist.

The gums, cheeks or lips may be irritated by newly placed appliances or by loose and broken appliances. If there is any trauma to the face, this can also cause irritation to the mouth soft tissue. You will be given instructions on minimising these affects. Very rarely loose orthodontic appliances may be accidentally swallowed or aspirated.

Usual post-adjustment tenderness should be expected and the period of tenderness or sensitivity varies with each patient and the procedure performed. This period may last 24 to 48 hours. If you are experiencing any loose appliances or unusual symptoms, please contact us.

Insufficient, excessive or asymmetrical changes in the growth of the jaws may limit the orthodontist’s ability to achieve the desired result. If growth becomes disproportionate the orthodontic treatment time may be prolonged. Growth changes that occur after orthodontic treatment may alter the quality of treatment results and may require further orthodontic treatment. In some cases of atypical growth, the bite may change so much that jaw surgery is required to achieve the best possible result.

The total time required to complete treatment may exceed the initial estimation provided. Excellent co-operation during orthodontic treatment such as wearing the appliance or elastics as prescribed can ensure the estimated treatment time is adhered to. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene, regularly attend appointments and maintain appliances properly for a quality result.

If your teeth vary from normal in the number, size and shape, achievement of the ideal result (for example, complete closure of excessive space) may require restorative treatment. The most common types of complementary treatment are cosmetic bonding, crown and bridges and periodontal therapy. Dental implants are also an option to replace missing teeth.

General medical problems can affect orthodontic treatment. You should keep your orthodontist informed of any changes to your medical health including any medication.