Why Not to Do Your Own Orthodontics

We of the Bridge Smiles Dental Group are proud to have provided orthodontic corrections on patients suffering from the effects of misalignment. While we sympathize with patients who want healthy smiles quick and on the cheap, we are concerned by a recent study by the American Association of Orthodontists which found that 13% of orthodontists have had to help a patient who attempted to do orthodontics on themselves.

Bone migration cannot be rushed. The orthodontic process doesn’t just push teeth through gum tissue; it also pushes them through jaw bone. If this is done too quickly, the bone will not have time to repair itself and the teeth could easily shift back or come loose.

DIY orthodontics was popularized by somebody who 3D printed his own aligners, but most home remedies are much cruder. Tying teeth together will pinch off their blood vessels and creates a risk of the tie sliding into the gum pocket, from which it must be fished out with a hook. Many of the materials people have suggested to use in place of wires, such as rubber or fiber, would also rot or release harmful chemicals. Our office offers fast braces to people who want to correct overcrowding or misalignment. We urge prospective patients to look into this option instead of doing something which may result in their needing replacement teeth.

Drs. Meghadri and Grewal run Bridge Smiles Dental at 820 US Hwy 202 North Neshanic Station, NJ, and 15 North Bridge ST. Somverville, NJ. To schedule an appointment, visit BridgeSmilesDental.com.