Temporomandibular (Jaw) Joint Dysfunction
Problems may occur in the jaw joints, i.e., temporomandibular joints (TMJ), causing pain, headaches or ear problems. Many factors can affect the health of the jaw joints, including past trauma (blows to the head or face), arthritis, hereditary tendency to jaw joint problems, excessive tooth grinding or clenching, poorly balanced bite, and many medical conditions. Jaw joint problems may occur with or without orthodontic treatment. Any jaw joint symptoms, including pain, jaw popping or difficulty opening or closing, should be promptly reported to the orthodontist. Treatment by other medical or dental specialists may be necessary.
Impacted, Ankylosed, Unerupted Teeth
Teeth may become impacted (trapped below the bone or gums), ankylosed (fused to the bone) or just fail to erupt. Oftentimes, these conditions occur for no apparent reason and generally cannot be anticipated. Treatment of these conditions depends on the particular circumstance and the overall importance of the involved tooth, and may require extraction, surgical exposure, surgical transplantation or prosthetic replacement.
Occlusal Adjustment
You can expect minimal imperfections in the way your teeth meet following the end of treatment. An occlusal equilibration procedure may be necessary, which is a grinding method used to fine-tune the occlusion. It may also be necessary to remove a small amount of enamel in between the teeth, thereby “flattening” surfaces in order to reduce the possibility of a relapse.
Non-Ideal Results
Due to the wide variation in the size and shape of the teeth, missing teeth, etc., achievement of an ideal result (for example, complete closure of a space) may not be possible. Restorative dental treatment, such as esthetic bonding, crowns or bridges or periodontal therapy, may be indicated. You are encouraged to ask your orthodontist and family dentist about adjunctive care.
Third Molars
As third molars (wisdom teeth) develop, your teeth may change alignment. Your dentist and/or orthodontist should monitor them in order to determine when and if the third molars need to be removed.
Allergies
Occasionally, patients can be allergic to some of the component materials of their orthodontic appliances. This may require a change in treatment plan or discontinuance of treatment prior to completion. Although very uncommon, medical management of dental material allergies may be necessary.
Transmission of Disease
Although our orthodontic office is following the State and Federal regulations and recommended universal personal protection and disinfection protocols to prevent transmission of communicable disease, it is possible that that they will not always be successful in blocking the transmission of a highly infectious virus. It is not possible to render orthodontic treatment with social distancing between the patient, orthodontist, assisting staff and sometimes, other patients. Knowing that you could be exposed to communicable diseases anywhere, by presenting yourself or your child for orthodontic treatment, you assume and accept the risk that you may inadvertently be exposed to a communicable disease in the orthodontic office.
General Health Problems
General health problems such as bone, blood or endocrine disorders, and many prescription and non-prescription drugs (including bisphosphonates) can affect your orthodontic treatment. It is imperative that you inform your orthodontist of any changes in your general health status.
Use of Tobacco Products
Smoking or chewing tobacco has been shown to increase the risk of gum disease and interferes with healing after oral surgery. Tobacco users are also more prone to oral cancer, gum recession, and delayed tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. If you use tobacco, you must carefully consider the possibility of a compromised orthodontic result.
Temporary Anchorage Devices
Your treatment may include the use of a temporary anchorage device(s) (i.e. metal screw or plate attached to the bone.) There are specific risks associated with them. It is possible that the screw(s) could become loose which would require its/their removal and possibly relocation or replacement with a larger screw. The screw and related material may be accidentally swallowed. If the device cannot be stabilized for an adequate length of time, an alternate treatment plan may be necessary. It is possible that the tissue around the device could become inflamed or infected, or the soft tissue could grow over the device, which could also require its removal, surgical excision of the tissue and/or the use of antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses. It is possible that the screws could break (i.e. upon insertion or removal.) If this occurs, the broken piece may be left in your mouth or may be surgically removed. This may require a referral to another dental specialist. When inserting the device(s), it is possible to damage the root of a tooth, a nerve, or to perforate the maxillary sinus. Usually, these problems are not significant; however, additional dental or medical treatment may be necessary. Local anesthetic may be used when these devices are inserted or removed, which also has risks. Please advise the doctor placing the device if you have had any difficulties with dental anesthetics in the past.
If any of the complications mentioned above do occur, a referral may be necessary to your family dentist or another dental or medical specialist for further treatment. Fees for these services are not included in the cost for orthodontic treatment.
Diagnostic Records
By consenting to orthodontic treatment, you consent to the making of necessary orthodontic records, including x-rays, before, during, and following the provision of care.
Orthodontic Staff
Where appropriate, office staff may be directed to perform portions of orthodontic treatment as prescribed and directed by the treating orthodontist(s).
Release of Patient Information
By consenting to orthodontic treatment, you consent to the practice sharing information regarding your orthodontic care for any "permitted use and disclosure" (ex. for treatment activities of a health care provider) as defined in the HIPAA Privacy Rule. For other uses, our practice will obtain an Authorization prior to making a disclosure. See 45 CFR 164.506 and/or our practice's Privacy Policy and Procedures for additional information.
Transferring Patient
Orthodontic treatments vary widely. Transfer will likely increase treatment fees, may involve changes in payment policies, and may change your treatment and/or appliances. When you transfer to a new orthodontist, your treatment time is often extended by the process of transfer.