Mid-ortho Treatment

Mid-ortho treatment is a good point to stop and reevaluate the original goals and monitor progress. I am approaching the midpoint in my orthodontic treatment. The space I have is getting even smaller. My other teeth are straightening out. Every individual is different in the way they respond to orthodontic treatment. The same force in the same direction to the same tooth in two different individuals will yield different results. All treatment is based on averages. The closer one is to average size and bone density and other factors, the more predictable the results at mid course. If someone deviates significantly from average, the orthodontic changes should be monitored more closely. Since I am small and fine-boned, I have to use less force to move my teeth and I have to be aware of the chances of bone loss around my teeth. This is one of the factors that makes orthodontics in adults more difficult than in children.

When the aligner is very new, or if it is worn too long, it can cause irritation. Any sharp edge can rub on the tongue making it extremely sore. I experienced this with my last aligner. I now will be even more careful to check for sharp edges when delivering aligners to my patients. Your aligners are best adjusted by your dentist, but if you have a sharp edge, you can use a nail file to smooth it down. When changing aligners, they need to be checked to see if they seat fully on the teeth. If you have aligners and are unsure how to tell, ask your dentist. If you proceed when the aligner does not fit right, your teeth will not move in the desired direction, and you will compromise the overall treatment results. It is better to wear an aligner too long, than not long enough.

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