You may have noticed an intriguing trend gaining in popularity, especially among teens – do-it-yourself braces. This can include mail order aligners and home remedy style options. These orthodontic experiments are terrifying for dentists because they understand the serious repercussions of what can happen when you try moving your teeth without the supervision of a qualified dentist or orthodontist.
Side Effects of DIY Braces
- Gum infections – Using paperclips, rubber bands, or any household item to move your teeth can cause a foreign object to lodge itself in the gums and cause a serious infection that leads to gum disease and bone loss.
- Damaged roots – A teen on YouTube demonstrates closing the gap between her two front teeth using a rubber band without understanding that this type of pressure can result in roots becoming damaged or deteriorating altogether, causing teeth to fall out.
- Bite-related issues – Even if you managed to successfully move your teeth on your own, which is highly unlikely with unreliable methods, you could end up with a bite that doesn’t come together properly. A bad bite (occlusion) can cause uneven wear, jaw joint problems, teeth sensitivity, and migraines.
- Mail order aligners – When considering ordering aligners from anyone other than your dentist, you are running the risk that an untrained individual is planning the future of your smile. There is a reason that dentists and orthodontists spend the better part of a decade receiving their training and education – it’s necessary. Your dentist is a doctor who specializes in the teeth, jaw, mouth, and gums. Your dental health is important, don’t trust it to just anyone.
Contact Us for Safe, Professionally Done Braces
At Old Settlers Dental, we offer orthodontic treatment here in our Round Rock, TX dental office under the supervision of Dr. Lewcock or Dr. Zavala. We offer both Invisalign and Six Month Smiles and will ensure that you stay safe and healthy throughout the process.
Contact our office to learn more about our orthodontic options and to schedule a consultation!
Related Services: Round Rock Orthodontics – Invisalign & Six Month Smiles Braces