A blog discussing the dangers highlighted by dentists in a recent BBC news article on achieving an Instagram smile by wearing clear braces or “aligners” ordered online.

Dentists have told the BBC that demand for the perfect Instagram smile has left people with damaged teeth from ordering clear braces or “aligners” online.

With the cost of living on the rise, orthodontic treatment as we know is generally expensive therefore it is no wonder why people are attracted to these adverts on television and on social media offering people the chance to have straight teeth from the comfort of their own home at a fraction of the price.

What could go wrong?

The problem with remote dentistry is that often you are not seen by a qualified orthodontist therefore if you have other issues with your bite (known as your occlusion) you may not be a suitable candidate for this type of treatment. You are also not reviewed to monitor the progress of your teeth therefore how do you know it is all going to plan?

One patient, of a well-known US-based remote orthodontics company, stated that his front teeth are wobbly as a result of having a course of clear aligners and that he was sent a DIY impression kit to make his own teeth moulds. The other option was to have a 3D scan of the mouth in a shop which was not available during lockdown.

According to the UK dental association, 3D scans and DIY teeth moulds used in remote orthodontics are not sufficient for approving aligners.

The British Orthodontic Society reports the following potential teeth straightening problems, if not carried out correctly:

• Issues with the gums, including gum disease or gum recession if the teeth are pushed out of the jawbone if there is not enough space for all your teeth.
• The way the teeth bite together can be affected.
• The teeth bite up into the gum of the roof of your mouth causing soreness.
• The opposite can be true where the contact between your teeth is less, so reducing biting efficiency.
• The top teeth can be pushed out to make them appear to ‘stick out’.
• Relapse, the teeth return to the position they were before, which is often seen where the treatment is very quick or retainers are not provided appropriately.

If a patient is faced with the above issues, it can be very stressful and costly having to see a specialist to undergo remedial work. Further, patients can be left suffering with occlusion issues and suffer daily pain and difficulties eating.

What should you expect when you see an orthodontist?

The British Orthodontic Society also report that, in order to avoid problems which can arise with teeth straightening, a diligent dentist or Orthodontist should always:

• Ask you about your concerns.
• Outline all the different treatment options and their risks and benefits.
• Explain about the different types of braces.
• Estimate how long the treatment should take.
• Explain about retainers at the start of treatment, and the possible need for lifelong wear if the teeth are to stay in their new place.
• Explain how likely the teeth are to stay in their new position at the end of treatment (that is the stability of the final result).
• At the start, explain what other procedures may be required as part of the treatment.
• Give you thinking time to decide if you want to go ahead.
• Give you a written treatment plan and fee estimate (if appropriate).
• Tell you how much orthodontic training they have had.

Summary

For some patients they may find that a ‘quick smile’ has been successful. However, for some the patient was never a suitable candidate and the aims of treatment were never going to be achieved. The Dental Negligence Team has experience in dealing with all types of dental related matters where treatment has not turned out as expected. If you have suffered or are experiencing problems after your teeth straightening treatment, you may have a claim for Dental Negligence.  Please call us for specialist advice.