Lecture Description
The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to improve the functionality and aesthetics of teeth and jawbones by correcting malocclusion, and to maintain the treatment results in a stable condition with well-balanced surrounding muscles of the jawbones and temporomandibular joints. While aesthetic and functional improvements can be achieved by orthodontic treatment, undesired side effects may affect the dentition and supporting structures. Periodontal problems belong to such side effects, which need to be managed by both the the practitioner and patient.
According to clinical reports orthodontic treatments cause some periodontal changes temporarily, but do not have any negative effects in the long-term. Furthermore, it has been reported the plaque score and the incidence of gingivitis are lower in patients who are in orthodontic treatment or patients with recent removal of orthodontic appliance than those who have not been treated orthodontically.
The proportion of adult orthodontic patients is expanding. Especially, the number of middle-aged patients is increasing. Most middle-aged patients have periodontal problems. These patients show alveolar bone loss of various degrees, which leads to decreased bone support of the teeth and a decrease in the vertical dimension. In adult patients, not only aesthetic but also functional rehabilitation is required. A careful periodontal screening and periodontal treatments need to be performed prior to orthodontic treatment. Even if inflamed tissue is removed before orthodontic treatment, dental plaque may accumulate again within one to two months after the installation of orthodontic appliance and moderate to severe inflammation may occur. If orthodontic treatment is continued, the inflammation would be exacerbated. Usually, interdental and molar areas are more affected than the labial, lingual, and anterior areas. If undesired thinning-out of periodontal tissue occurs due to orthodontic force such as expansion and torque, a special attention should be paid to gingival recession, which may occur following orthodontic treatment as a result of mechanical irritation, periodontitis, and traumatic occlusion.
For adequate and stable treatment results, it is important to establish a protocol for the management of periodontal health during orthodontic treatment. In order to maintain and improve dental and periodontal health during orthodontic treatment, an oral hygiene management program, and an integrated treatment plan regarding the type and application of device, and the treatment timing and method are necessary.
October 28-30, 2022 ¡¤ COEX, Seoul, Korea