The phrase “tooth straightening is comparable to plastic surgery” is not an exaggeration at all.
So, are there any risks to orthodontic treatment? Before answering this question, let’s first understand the principle of this technology.
The scientific name of orthodontics is “orthodontics”. The reason why orthodontic technology can restore teeth to straightness is the mechanism of destruction and regeneration. Friends who have learned about the human body should know that no matter at what age, human cells are constantly undergoing metabolism, old cells die, new cells are formed, and there is an infinite cycle, and tooth tissue is no exception.
In fact, teeth are very hard, but the alveolar bone is different, which is extremely malleable. The blood circulation of the alveolar bone is very rich, and the metabolism is faster. Orthodontic technology takes advantage of this. The external force formed by the use of braces gradually destroys the balance of the alveolar bone, rebuilds and regenerates the alveolar bone, so as to achieve The purpose of repositioning crooked teeth.
To put it simply, it is a force on the teeth → transfer to the alveolar bone → resorption and regeneration of the alveolar bone → tooth movement.
Risk: yes, but manageable
Because the principle of orthodontics is to destroy and rebuild, the risk of orthodontics is that if the correction force is too strong, or the direction is wrong, resulting in gingival recession and alveolar bone resorption, it will cause irreversible damage to the periodontal tissue. Symptoms such as dental nerve necrosis and tooth loss may even occur.
However, this risk is controllable, and professional orthodontists can control the risk to a minimum. Therefore, when orthodontic treatment, be sure to choose a formal professional oral medical institution and skilled and experienced orthodontists.
Post-op: Stick to the retainer
It is worth noting that if the retainer is not worn properly after orthodontic treatment, it will cause a rebound! This is because after orthodontic treatment, the teeth must be held in their new position with the help of retainers until the alveolar bone is remodeled.
In practice, doctors generally require patients to wear a retainer for a long time, the longer the better, especially for adult patients, because adults have missed the best time for correction of puberty, so they need to use the power of the retainer. Generally speaking, adult orthodontic patients should wear it for 3-5 years. During this period, attention should be paid to oral and dental hygiene and regular review.
Orthodontics is a beautiful gift that stomatology brings to friends who have crooked teeth. However, if you want to gain beauty and minimize the risk, you must choose a regular professional oral medical institution and technology. Superb and experienced orthodontist!