Orthodontic appliances, such as braces, can be a great way to improve your smile and correct misalignment or bad bites. However, it is important to be aware of the potential long-term side effects of braces before undergoing treatment. For example, installing orthodontic appliances can put the user at risk of increasing gingivitis, plaque buildup and overstretching and, subsequently, weakening the roots of the teeth that move through the braces. This can lead to problems such as increased bursa depth, recession, and even the possibility of bone loss.
Root resorption is a shortening of the roots during the placement of braces. Sometimes, this will be nothing more than a slight dullness of the tips of the roots and will not cause any long-term problems with those teeth. More rarely, some patients may experience a shortening of half or more of the root. This could significantly affect the long-term health and stability of affected teeth.
Although the exact cause of this isn't fully understood, wearing braces for a long period of time (more than 2 to 3 years) seems to increase the chances of this happening. Many orthodontists take initial, intermediate, and final x-rays of treatment to determine if any root resorption occurred during treatment. One of the major side effects of braces is tooth decay and tooth death. Wearing metal braces is a new experience for the mouth, and handkerchiefs can take a while to get used to braces. In the worst case scenario, metal braces can affect the inner tissues of the lips and cheeks and cause ulcers.
You may have heard stories of people who wear braces and who, as a result, develop tooth decay or gum disease, but this isn't true. Wearing braces doesn't have a detrimental effect on oral health; it simply requires more attention to maintain them. When you wear braces, it's very important to brush your teeth and floss after eating to keep the area clean and free of bacteria, but there's no reason why the braces themselves could affect your oral health. Braces can achieve amazing results by straightening your teeth and correcting misalignment or bad bites, but there are many factors you should consider before undergoing treatment. Having braces can hinder the brushing technique and prevent the use of dental floss, allowing more and more plaque to build up.
Pain and discomfort after the placement and activation of orthodontic appliances, root resorption, tooth decay, allergic reactions, dental cavities and dietary restrictions are some of the possible reasons for not wearing braces. When dirt and plaque build up on braces due to teeth not being cleaned inside areas, gum disease occurs. It is therefore essential that those with braces take extra care when it comes to oral hygiene in order to avoid any long-term side effects.