FAQ's
continued
2.
Swollen Gums and Periodontal Problems
Your
braces may press on your gums in some areas of your
mouth. This gum tissue may get sore and swollen if you
do not brush well. Your gums and braces need to be
brushed and cleaned thoroughly after eating to keep them
healthy. Let your orthodontist know right away if you
suspect you have a periodontal (gum) problem.
Periodontal
disease may lead to receding gums and gradual loss of
supporting bone for your teeth. Some people are more
susceptible to the disease than others. The exact causes
are unknown, but there are some well-established
contributing factors, including unsatisfactory oral
hygiene, accumulation of plaque and debris around teeth
and gums, incorrect brushing and general health
problems.
If severe
periodontal disease occurs during orthodontic treatment,
it may be difficult or impossible to control bone loss
and subsequent loss of teeth. Consultation and treatment
by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating
gum disease, may be advised. If periodontal problems
during orthodontic treatment cannot be controlled,
treatment may be discontinued.
3.
Root Resorption
Root
resorption is a shortening of the tooth roots. It can
occur with or without orthodontic appliances and it is
impossible to predict susceptibility to this condition.
Some patients are predisposed to this occurring, while
most are not. Slight changes in root length are usually
insignificant, but occasionally with severe changes, the
longevity of the teeth involved may be jeopardized. The
incidence may increase with extended orthodontic
treatment. Your cooperation during treatment is very
important in the prevention of root resorption.
4.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic
(clear) braces have been designed to improve aesthetics,
especially for the adult patient. These modern
appliances have helped many adult patients receive the
benefits of orthodontic treatment without it being
obvious they are in treatment. Due to their brittle
nature, however, occasionally ceramic brackets have been
known to break. Ceramic braces on the lower teeth may
cause wear of the opposing teeth. Enamel damage can
occur at removal, but is uncommon. Your orthodontist
will help you determine which braces will provide the
best treatment results with a minimum of potential
problems.
5.
Loss of Tooth Vitality
On rare
occasions, teeth that have been previously traumatized,
have large fillings, or periodontal problems, may
experience tooth discoloration and/or nerve degeneration
during orthodontic treatment. In such cases, root canal
treatment might be necessary to maintain the health of a
tooth. Bleaching may also be recommended to restore a
more natural tooth color.
6.
Impacted Teeth
Teeth are
"impacted" when they stay partially or
completely under the gum. While impaction usually occurs
when your teeth are too crowded for a new tooth to
emerge, it can also happen for no apparent reason.
Treatment depends on the cause and the importance of the
impacted tooth to the jaw structure.
The
common impacted teeth are the "wisdom teeth".
These teeth may not grow into place properly because the
jaw does not have sufficient room to accommodate proper
eruption. Your orthodontist may recommend their
extraction.
An oral
surgeon may be required to uncover and move an impacted
tooth prior to tooth movement. The roots of nearby teeth
may be damaged by the presence or movement of an
impacted tooth. Not all impacted teeth can be
successfully moved, which may necessitate their
extraction.
7.
Ankylosed Teeth
In some
instances, teeth will not move because they are attached
to the jawbone (ankylosed). When a tooth is ankylosed,
adjacent teeth may be forced to move, which may affect
your bite. An ankylosed tooth may require surgery, for
movement into place, or removal.
8.
Injuries from Appliances
A number
of orthodontic appliances are used in orthodontic
treatment. It is important that you closely follow your
orthodontist's instructions regarding their use.
However, there is always some risk of injury in the use
of appliances.
BRACES-Because
your braces may protect your teeth, a blow to the face
can scratch or cut the inside of your lips or cheeks.
Loose or broken wires and bands can also scratch or
irritate your cheeks, gums or lips. Your orthodontist
will give you soft wax to cover problem areas like this.
If problems develop, call the office for an appointment.
Dislodged
or broken braces can be swallowed or inhaled. The risk
of dislodging your braces is increased when sticky or
crunchy foods are eaten. Do not eat hard candy, ice,
caramel, or similar foods. Your orthodontist will review
foods that are not to be eaten.
RETAINERS.
If your retainer breaks, stop wearing it immediately.
Call your orthodontist as soon as possible so that your
retainer can be repaired or replaced. Unless otherwise
told, retainers are to be worn during waking hours only.
HEADGEAR.
You must follow your orthodontist's instructions for
safe and effective use of headgear. Do not engage in
physical sports or activities while wearing your
headgear. You may be seriously injured if another person
pulls your headgear off accidentally or intentionally.
Headgear or neckgear that is pulled away from the head
can snap back and seriously injure your face and/or
eyes. Always remember to release all tension before
removing the headgear or neckgear.
9.
Injuries During Treatment Procedures
Your
orthodontic treatment may involve the use of instruments
that could accidentally scratch or injure your mouth. It
is also possible to accidentally swallow or inhale a
small orthodontic appliance.
Although
your orthodontist will use great care in applying and
removing your braces and other bonded attachments,
damage may occur to teeth previously weakened by cracks
in the enamel, undetected cavities or weak fillings.
FAQ's
Continued... |
