Orthodontics and dental implants are becoming very common in the modern world of modern dental care. Orthodontics is used to bring straight teeth and enhance bite functionality whereas dental implants are a long-lasting prosthesis made as a substitute to missing teeth. However, alongside these innovations come widespread misconceptions, especially about peri-implantitis, which is a condition that affects the tissues surrounding implants.
Unfortunately, these myths may cause inappropriate choices, oral health impairment, and compromised oral health.One should not mix facts and fiction to arrive at informed decisions. The following are a few orthodontics and peri-implantitis myths that you need to quit.
1. Orthodontics is only about Aesthetics
Some people believe that orthodontics is purely cosmetic and only helps to make a person have a straight smile. Although the aesthetic effect of orthodontics is admittedly a positive aspect, the role that orthodontics has in oral health is far more profound. Proper alignment will make the bite function properly, put less strain on the jaw muscles and you will be able to clean your teeth easily.
When the teeth are aligned appropriately, the chances of plaque building up is reduced thereby decreasing the chances of gum disease and peri-implantitis.
2. Dental Implants can be moved Like Natural Teeth
Another myth being propagated is that dental implants act as natural teeth when undergoing an orthodontic therapy. This is not true. Natural teeth are anchored by periodontal ligaments, allowing them to shift gradually when orthodontic forces are applied. However, implants are fused directly into the jawbone.
Due to this fact, implants are immobile. When one tries to use orthodontic forces on them, it can lead to complications instead of aligning. This difference should be understood as it is the source of realistic expectations and good treatment outcomes.
3. Peri-implantitis is rare and not a serious Concern
Some people believe that peri-implantitis is very rare or not serious to be concerned about. As a matter of fact it is a serious ailment which may cause bone loss and subsequent failure of the implants when untreated. Although not all implant patients end up with peri-implantitis, chances are high that it would occur, particularly amongst patients who have bad oral health and have underlying health issues.
The symptoms like gum inflammation, bleeding, or pains should never be overlooked at the initial stages. The condition can be easily treated when properly addressed in time. It is a serious problem that cannot be ignored in the long-term.
4. Orthodontic treatment causes Peri-implantitis
Among the myths, which have shown to be long-standing, include the idea that orthodontic treatment causes peri-implantitis. As a matter of fact, orthodontics does not provoke this state per se. Bacterial infection is the main cause of peri-implantitis as this is engendered by low oral hygiene, plaque formation, or pre-existing gum ailment.
Braces or aligners used in orthodontics can complicate cleaning, which, in turn, may indirectly lead to infection in cases of the lack of adequate care. Nevertheless, regularly brushed, flossed, and professionally taken care of, patients can indeed pass orthodontics without the occurrence of peri-implantitis.
5. Perfect oral hygiene Eliminates all Risk
Good oral hygiene should be taken seriously. Although it does not guarantee peri-implantitis, it maintains overall oral hygiene. It has been believed that, simply, by brushing and flossing we can be sure that everything is all right. Nevertheless, smoking, diabetes, predisposition to the genetic conditions, and incorrect positioning of the implants are also possible causes of the condition.
Routine dental examinations, use of professional observation are also significant. The combination of personal care and professional control is the most effective way of protection against peri-implantitis.