DIY Orthodontics Exposed: Myths vs. Real Risks

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There is a constant rise of DIY practices that are significantly gaining popularity. Especially in the field of orthodontics. The practices involve various uses of home-based equipment to create tools. That straightens your teeth without the need for dental supervision.

DIY orthodontics might seem appealing. However, there are many myths and potential real risks involved. In this blog, we will be looking at the various myths and significant risks of adopting DIY orthodontic practices. Let’s dig in!

DIY Orthodontics

According to the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, a 9-year-old boy lost his front teeth due to do-it-yourself treatment with a rubber band.

Orthodontic practices at home are geared towards providing teeth alignment solutions. Without the need for professional supervision. These practices have the appeal of affordability and convenience. However, it is important to understand the minute details involved. And understand potential risks and effectiveness.

Risks of DIY Orthodontic Practices

dental model
Dentist holding dental teeth for treatment display

There are a lot of risks associated with DIY orthodontic practices. Which might appeal to many. Some of these include:

  • Chances of damage to dental jaws, gums, and facial bones due to lack of professional supervision.
  • Irreversible teeth damage and worsening of dental issues due to improper diagnosis.
  • Dental damages like teeth chipping, jawbone damage, and gum infections. Achieved due to untested methods or tools used at home.

Major Drawbacks and Potential Benefits

Carrying out teeth alignment at home using DIY equipment has major drawbacks and provides some limited benefits. Some of these include:

  • Cost savings as DIY kits are affordable. In comparison to in-clinic professional services and treatments.
  • Flexibility and convenience are important. People appreciate methods that help them avoid visiting a dentist or orthodontist.
  • You might not achieve ideal results or damage your dental health without the guidance of industry professionals.
  • At-home orthodontic practices can seriously harm your health. It might not even solve your dental issues completely.
  • DIY orthodontic practices can only solve or provide partial aesthetic recovery. It does not solve the root cause of dental problems like bruxism or TMJ (Temporomandibular disorder) issues.

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Common Practices for DIY Orthodontics

clear aligners
Woman holding clear aligners

Some of the most common ways people carry out DIY practices include:

Using Rubber Band

One of the most common ways to achieve teeth alignment at home is to use rubber bands. People believe that constant pressure on teeth will align their teeth towards the ideal position.

However, what they don’t understand is that the process has a lot of risks. Especially for causing irreversible dental damage to gums, teeth, roots, and dental health.

Makeshift (DIY) Braces

Many home alignment experts try to motivate people to create home-based orthodontic solutions. These include makeshift braces. Unfortunately, what they don’t understand is that without proper dental guidance. They can experience all kinds of dental complications like misaligned jaws, tooth loss, and gum infections.

DIY Aligners

The trend of creating your very personal home aligners has gained popularity. However, it is important to understand the effectiveness of various aligners. Tailored aligners such as those provided by ALIGNERCO are safe and ideal. DIY aligners have inferior materials like rubber bands, unhygienic plastic, or paper clips.

Understanding DIY Orthodontic Practices Myths

Now, let's understand and unravel all the popular mythos. Especially those associated with DIY orthodontics. Some of these include:

Universal Size of DIY Braces

A common perception among makeshift home aligner experts is the opinion that one common aligner set can fit everyone’s needs. However, in reality, every person has a unique dental teeth structure. Tailored invisible aligners are ideal for obtaining desired teeth alignment results.

DIY Orthodontic Practices Save Money

Many home aligner influencers believe that adopting a homemade aligner kit can save you the hassle of obtaining professional alignment solutions.

However, there are many dental complications and risks of adopting home-crafted aligners. These include serious dental injuries that might require surgery or immediate medical intervention.

Professional Dental Consultation is Not Needed

People who adopt homebrew (DIY) aligners believe that there is no need for dental or orthodontic consultation.

On the contrary, home-based alignment solutions might need more dental supervision. In comparison to dentist-approved at-home clear aligner solutions as provided by ALIGNERCO.

Things To Consider Before Adopting DIY Orthodontic Practices

You need to consider some essential factors before going forward with affordable DIY orthodontic solutions. Some of these include:

  • Consult with an experienced dentist before choosing your ideal home-based teeth alignment solution. They can guide you and provide you with suitable treatment recommendations as per your dental health needs.
  • Understand the harmful dangers and complications associated with home-based teeth alignment solutions. Understand that any error or problem in treatment can lead to more complicated dental issues.
  • You should consider dental health and safety. Before going forward with your ideal at-home teeth alignment solution.

Summing Up

The basic idea of a home-based (DIY) orthodontic solution might seem attractive and feasible. It is important to understand the hidden dangers involved with makeshift tools and practices. Your dental health simply cannot be overlooked or ignored.

Book a consultation with a professional dentist to understand your teeth alignment and treatment needs. As a result, you enjoy a safer teeth alignment journey, resulting in a radiant smile for a long time.

Find out more about clear aligners by giving us a call at +351 300 600 820

FAQs

1. What is meant by DIY orthodontic treatment?

The practice of DIY involves various tools, products, or methods. To achieve teeth alignment without involving dental professionals or supervision. Most of these makeshift methods might include affordable teeth alignment kits or solutions.

2. Are DIY orthodontic practices safe to practice and apply?

No, the safety of at-home orthodontic practices can vary greatly. While some DIY practices might seem simple. You lack the expertise and supervision of dental professionals who can guide you better for your teeth alignment needs.

3. Are there any risks involved in adopting DIY orthodontic practices?

There are many potential risks involved in adopting DIY practices. These include misaligned jaws, improper bites, and gum infections. These are a result of not consulting with dental professionals for orthodontic treatment.