Orthodontic articles

Relation between orthodontics and tooth infection

a woman smiling with orthodontics in the orthodontist's clinic

Orthodontics is a method to align the teeth to the standard position. It is performed gradually to prevent damage to the teeth’ root. The tooth roots consists of arteries and nerves, and sudden movement and excessive pressure can disrupt blood flow and tissue nutrition.

a woman who has a toothache

If left untreated, the decayed teeth can result in abscesses and dental infections. These teeth may appear healthy. Denervated teeth become darker than regular teeth. The infected tooth and the abscess can be detected by radiography of the tooth. In rare cases, infected teeth or teeth with a granuloma abscess may appear normal on the outside. However, in most cases, most of the tooth crown is destroyed due to the extension of caries. Before beginning the orthodontic treatment, the decayed teeth should be repaired.

Can orthodontics lead to tooth infection?

Orthodontic brackets themselves do not cause infection or abscess. Dental abscesses are commonly caused by previous caries and bacterial infections surrounding the teeth, gums, or bone. Poor oral hygiene, either with or without orthodontic brackets, can lead to decay, infection, and abscess.

Food can get stuck around brackets and underlie bacterial growth. Orthodontic brackets, along with poor oral hygiene, can lead to severe infections and tooth decay.

a person with orthodontics having gum infection

Five golden tips to prevent infection during orthodontics

  • Brush your teeth after each meal.
  • Regularly use orthodontic floss.
  • Ask an orthodontist to prescribe a special mouthwash for you.
  • Use orthodontic brushes and devices. Consult a doctor in this regard.
  • Orthodontic checkups should be performed regularly by the orthodontist.
  • Carefully pay attention to the condition of teeth and brackets.

May dental infection be treated spontaneously after orthodontics?

Dental infections can never be treated spontaneously, whether with or without orthodontics. As a result, the necessary therapeutic measures should be taken immediately. If left unchecked, one or all of the following will occur:

  • Pain and inflammation
  • Fever
  • Bleeding
  • Discomfort, especially when chewing and swallowing food
  • In acute cases, the infection can spread to other areas of the face and neck.
  • Specialized measures to prevent infection

Infection during orthodontics is prevented at Dr. Jamilian’s orthodontic clinic by taking specialized measures using sterile and standard equipment and supplies. These measures aim to protect the patient, staff, and even the doctor himself and to prevent transmission of any contamination.

Dr Abdolreza Jamilian Orthodontist

About Dr Abdolreza Jamilian Orthodontist

Dr. Jamilian, an orthodontist, has a specialized fellowship in orthodontic surgery and maxillofacial abnormalities and is a professor in the orthodontics department of the Dentistry School of the Islamic Azad University. He is member of Iranian and European Board of Orthodontics (EBO) and is a member of the Iranian, American and European Orthodontists Association.

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