DIY Orthodontics
If you are considering teeth straightening or orthodontics, you may well have seen online advertising or social media from companies that suggest you can obtain a straighter smile at home, without seeing an orthodontist or dentist, and with fast results.
There are serious risks associated with this kind of ‘DIY’ orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment is complex and orthodontists and dentists receive many years of professional training as well as continuous supervision to make sure treatment is conducted safely and effectively.
The British Orthodontic Society (BOS) is extremely concerned about this trend for the following reasons:
- A full clinical examination by a trained clinician is necessary to decide if orthodontic treatment is in the best interests of an individual
- There are a number of different types of orthodontic appliance with different advantages and risks. Those considering braces need to be aware of the choices available to them and also to understand the risks of treatment
- Unsupervised treatment may result in a suboptimal outcome and the need for further treatment, or in the worst-case scenario, cause permanent damage to dental health
The General Dental Council agrees with us and in 2021 released a statement that said:
“In line with current authoritative clinical guidance, and orthodontic training, clinical judgements about the suitability of a proposed course of orthodontic treatment must be based on a full assessment of the patient’s oral health. At present, there is no effective substitute for a physical, clinical examination as the foundation for that assessment.”
We recommend that patients attend to see an experienced/trained clinician in person who will be able to carry out a full clinical and orthodontic assessment and discuss their particular orthodontic and dental requirements and ensure all appropriate and available options are considered. Seeing an experienced clinician will allow treatment to be carefully monitored and ensure that should any problems arise these are quickly addressed.
For more information about the risks of DIY orthodontics, please visit https://www.dentalhealth.org/safesmiles
We strongly advise the public not to undertake such treatments. If you are considering braces please seek the advice of your dentist first.