Why DIY Orthodontics is a Bad Idea

One of the most dangerous trends in oral health recently is the popularity of do-it-yourself orthodontics. Promoted as a means of reducing time and cost, these techniques actually imperil the well-being of the person using them. As a dental and orthodontic professional, Dr. Jia Y. Lee wants his patients to understand why amateur short-cuts will cost more in the long run.


People who have studied invisible aligners know that they are manufactured a few at a time and are switched out every few weeks. Recently, a story circulated on the internet of somebody who 3D-printed his own aligners so he could move his teeth faster. This is a dangerous error because teeth and jawbones are alive, and moving teeth is essentially pushing one set of living bones through another. The jawbones need time to rebuild after the teeth have migrated, or else the teeth will be left in weak, unstable bone. This often allows them to fall out or return to their previous position.


Trying to force aligners to work faster is similar to older DIY orthodontic techniques that created a lot of problems. People worried about the cost of braces sometimes use rubber bands or floss as improvised orthodontic wires. This is a bad idea for two reasons: putting pressure directly on the teeth instead of on brackets chokes their blood supply, and bands without brackets can easily slip into the gum pocket, where they may get stuck and rot. If you are unhappy with the placement of your teeth, we urge you to consult with us for professional help instead of doing something that will require your teeth to be removed.


Dr. Jia Y. Lee operates at 9477 Haven Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, California, 91730. To schedule an appointment, call 909-989-5598 or visit MyRanchoCucamongaDentist.com.

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