for the Orthodontic Patient

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is the dental specialty that includes the diagnosis,
prevention, interception and correction of malocclusion, as well as neuromuscular and skeletal
abnormalities of the developing or mature orofacial structures.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed at least two additional years of graduate
training in orthodontics at an accredited program after graduation from dental school.
Successful orthodontic treatment is a partnership between
the orthodontist and the patient. The doctor and staff are
dedicated to achieving the best possible result for each
patient. As a general rule, informed and cooperative patients
can achieve positive orthodontic results. While recognizing
the benefits of a beautiful healthy smile, you should also be
aware that, as with all healing arts, orthodontic treatment
has limitations and potential risks. These are seldom serious
enough to indicate that you should not have treatment;
however, all patients should seriously consider the option of
no orthodontic treatment at all by accepting their present oral
condition. Alternatives to orthodontic treatment vary with
the individual’s specific problem, and prosthetic solutions or
limited orthodontic treatment may be considerations. You are
encouraged to discuss alternatives with the doctor prior to
beginning treatment.
Results of Treatment
Orthodontic treatment usually proceeds as planned,
a
nd we intend to do everything possible to achieve
the best results for every patient. However, we
c
annot guarantee that you will be completely satis-
fied with your results, nor can all complications
o
r consequences be anticipated. The success of
treatment depends on your cooperation in keeping
a
ppointments, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoid-
ing loose or broken appliances, and following the
o
rthodontist’s instructions carefully.
Length of Treatment
The length of treatment depends on a number of
i
ssues, including the severity of the problem, the
patient’s growth and the level of patient cooperation.
T
he actual treatment time is usually close to the
estimated treatment time, but treatment may be
l
engthened if, for example, unanticipated growth
occurs, if there are habits affecting the dentofacial
s
tructures, if periodontal or other dental problems
occur, or if patient cooperation is not adequate.
T
herefore, changes in the original treatment plan
may become necessary. If treatment time is extend-
e
d beyond the original estimate, additional fees may
be assessed.
Discomfort
The mouth is very sensitive so you can expect an
adjustment period and some discomfort due to
the introduction of orthodontic appliances. Non-
prescription pain medication can be used during
this adjustment period.
Relapse
Completed orthodontic treatment does not guaran-
tee perfectly straight teeth for the rest of your life.
Retainers will be required to keep your teeth in their
new positions as a result of your orthodontic treat-
ment. You must wear your retainers as instructed or
teeth may shift, in addition to other adverse effects.
Regular retainer wear is often necessary for several
years following orthodontic treatment. However,
changes after that time can occur due to natural
causes, including habits such as tongue thrusting,
mouth breathing, and growth and maturation that con-
tinue throughout life. Later in life, most people will
see their teeth shift. Minor irregularities, particularly
in the lower front teeth, may have to be accepted.
Some changes may require additional orthodontic
treatment or, in some cases, surgery. Some situa-
tions may require non-removable retainers or other
dental appliances made by your family dentist.
Extractions
Some cases will require the removal of deciduous
(baby) teeth or permanent teeth. There are additional
risks associated with the removal of teeth which
you should discuss with your family dentist or oral
surgeon prior to the procedure.
Orthognathic Surgery
Some patients have significant skeletal disharmonies
which require orthodontic treatment in conjunction
with orthognathic (dentofacial) surgery. There are
additional risks associated with this surgery which
you should discuss with your oral and/or maxillofa-
cial surgeon prior to beginning orthodontic treatment.
P
lease be aware that orthodontic treatment prior to
o
rthognathic surgery often only aligns the teeth
within the individual dental arches. Therefore,
p
atients discontinuing orthodontic treatment without
completing the planned surgical procedures may
h
ave a malocclusion that is worse than when they
began treatment!
Decalcification and Dental Caries
E
xcellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic
t
reatment as are regular visits to your family dentist.
I
nadequate or improper hygiene could result in
cavities, discolored teeth, periodontal disease and/
o
r decalcification. These same problems can occur
without orthodontic treatment, but the risk is greater
t
o an individual wearing braces or other appliances.
These problems may be aggravated if the patient
h
as not had the benefit of fluoridated water or its
substitute, or if the patient consumes sweetened
b
everages or foods.
Root Resorption
The roots of some patients’ teeth become shorter
(resorption) during orthodontic treatment. It is not
k
nown exactly what causes root resorption, nor is it
possible to predict which patients will experience it.
However, many patients have retained teeth through -
out life with severely shortened roots. If resorption
is detected during orthodontic treatment, your
orthodontist may recommend a pause in treatment
or the removal of the appliances prior to the com-
pletion of orthodontic treatment.
Nerve Damage
A tooth that has been traumatized by an accident or
deep decay may have experienced damage to the
nerve of the tooth. Orthodontic tooth movement may,
in some cases, aggravate this condition. In some
cases, root canal treatment may be necessary. In
severe cases, the tooth or teeth may be lost.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum and bone) disease can develop or
worsen during orthodontic treatment due to many
factors, but most often due to the lack of adequate
oral hygiene. You must have your general dentist,
or if indicated, a periodontist monitor your periodon-
tal health during orthodontic treatment every three
to six months. If periodontal problems cannot be
controlled, orthodontic treatment may have to be
discontinued prior to completion.
Injury From Orthodontic Appliances
Activities or foods which could damage, loosen or
dislodge orthodontic appliances need to be avoided.
Loosened or damaged orthodontic appliances
can be inhaled or swallowed or could cause other
damage to the patient. You should inform your
orthodontist of any unusual symptoms or of any
loose or broken appliances as soon as they are
noticed. Damage to the enamel of a tooth or to a
restoration (crown, bonding, veneer, etc.) is possible
when ortho dontic appliances are removed. This
problem may be more likely when esthetic (clear or
tooth colored) appliances have been selected. If
damage to a tooth or restoration occurs, restoration
of the involved tooth/teeth by your dentist may be
necessary.
Headgears
Orthodontic headgears can cause injury to the patient.
I
njuries can include damage to the face or eyes.
In the event of injury or especially an eye injury,
h
owever minor, immediate medical help should be
sought. Refrain from wearing headgear in situations
w
here there may be a chance that it could be
dislodged or pulled off. Sports activities and games
s
hould be avoided when wearing orthodontic
headgear.
Temporomandibular (Jaw)
J
oint Dysfunction
P
roblems may occur in the jaw joints, i.e., temporo-
mandibular joints (TMJ), causing pain, headaches or
e
ar problems. Many factors can affect the health of
t
he jaw joints, including past trauma (blows to the
head or face), arthritis, hereditary tendency to jaw
j
oint problems, excessive tooth grinding or clenching,
poorly balanced bite, and many medical conditions.
J
aw joint problems may occur with or without ortho-
dontic treatment. Any jaw joint symptoms, including
p
ain, jaw popping or difficulty opening or closing,
should be promptly reported to the orthodontist.
T
reatment by other medical or dental specialists
may be necessary.
Impacted, Ankylosed,
Unerupted Teeth
Teeth may become impacted (trapped below the bone
or gums), ankylosed (fused to the bone) or just fail
to erupt. Oftentimes, these conditions occur for no
apparent reason and generally cannot be anticipated.
Treatment of these conditions depends on the partic-
ular circumstance and the overall importance of the
involved tooth, and may require extraction, surgical
exposure, surgical transplantation or prosthetic
replacement.
Occlusal Adjustment
You can expect minimal imperfections in the way
your teeth meet following the end of treatment. An
occlusal equilibration procedure may be necessary,
which is a grinding method used to fine-tune the
occlusion. It may also be necessary to remove
a small amount of enamel in between the teeth,
thereby “flattening” surfaces in order to reduce the
possibility of a relapse.
Non-Ideal Results
Due to the wide variation in the size and shape of
the teeth, missing teeth, etc., achievement of an
ideal result (for example, complete closure of a
space) may not be possible. Restorative dental
treatment, such as esthetic bonding, crowns or
bridges or periodontal therapy, may be indicated.
You are encouraged to ask your orthodontist and
family dentist about adjunctive care.
Third Molars
As third molars (wisdom teeth) develop, your teeth
may change alignment. Your dentist and/or ortho-
dontist should monitor them in order to determine
when and if the third molars need to be removed.
Continued on next page
Patient or Parent/Guardian Initials ___________
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I hereby acknowledge that I have read and
fully understand the treatment considera-
tions and risks presented in this form.
I also understand that there may be other
problems that occur less frequently than
those presented, and that actual results
may differ from the anticipated results.
I also acknowledge that I have discussed
this form with the undersigned orthodon-
tist(s) and have been given the opportunity
to ask any questions. I have been asked
to make a choice about my treatment. I
hereby consent to the treatment proposed
and authorize the orthodontist(s) indicated
below to provide the treatment. I also
authorize the orthodontist(s) to provide my
health care information to my other health
care providers. I understand that my treat-
ment fee covers only treatment provided
by the orthodontist(s), and that treatment
provided by other dental or medical pro-
fessionals is not included in the fee for
my orthodontic treatment.
Signature of Patient/Parent/Guardian Date
Signature of Orthodontist/Group Name Date
Witness Date
CONSENT TO UNDERGO
ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
I hereby consent to the making of diagnos-
tic records, including x-rays, before, during
and following orthodontic treatment, and to
the above doctor(s) and, where appropriate,
staff providing orthodontic treatment
prescribed by the above doctor(s) for the
above individual. I fully understand all of
the risks associated with the treatment.
AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF
PATIENT INFORMATION
I hereby authorize the above doctor(s) to
provide other health care providers with
information regarding the above individual’s
orthodontic care as deemed appropriate.
I understand that once released, the above
doctor(s) and staff has(have) no responsibili-
ty for any further release by the individual
receiving this information.
TRANSFERRING PATIENT
Or thodontic treatments var y widely.
Transfer will likely increase treatment fees,
may involve changes in payment policies,
and may change your treatment and/or
appliances. When you transfer to a new
orthodontist, your treatment time is often
extended by the process of transfer.
CONSENT TO USE OF RECORDS
I hereby give my permission for the use of
orthodontic records, including photographs,
made in the process of examinations,
treatment, and retention for purposes of
professional consultations, research, educa-
tion, or publication in professional journals.
Signature Date
Witness Date
I have the legal authority to sign this on behalf of
Name of Patient
Relationship to Patient
Patient or Parent/Guardian Initials ___________
Patient _________________________________ Date _________________
Allergies
Occasionally, patients can be allergic to some of
t
he component materials of their orthodontic appli-
ances. This may require a change in treatment plan
o
r discontinuance of treatment prior to completion.
Although very uncommon, medical management of
d
ental material allergies may be necessary.
General Health Problems
G
eneral health problems such as bone, blood or
e
ndocrine disorders, and many prescription and
non-prescription drugs (including bisphosphonates)
c
an affect your orthodontic treatment. It is imperative
that you inform your ortho dontist of any changes in
y
our general health status.
Use of Tobacco Products
S
moking or chewing tobacco has been shown to
increase the risk of gum disease and interferes with
h
ealing after oral surgery. Tobacco users are also
more prone to oral cancer, gum recession, and
delayed tooth movement during orthodontic treat-
ment. If you use tobacco, you must carefully consider
t
he possibility of a compromised orthodontic result.
Temporary Anchorage Devices
Your treatment may include the use of a temporary
anchorage device(s) (i.e. metal screw or plate
attached to the bone.) There are specific risks
associated with them.
It is possible that the screw(s) could become loose
which would require its/their removal and possibly
relocation or replacement with a larger screw. The
screw and related material may be accidentally
swallowed. If the device cannot be stabilized for
an adequate length of time, an alternate treatment
plan may be necessary.
It is possible that the tissue around the device could
become inflamed or infected, or the soft tissue could
grow over the device, which could also require its
removal, surgical excision of the tissue and/or the
use of antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses.
It is possible that the screws could break (i.e. upon
insertion or removal.) If this occurs, the broken
piece may be left in your mouth or may be surgically
removed. This may require referral to another den-
tal specialist.
When inserting the device(s), it is possible to
damage the root of a tooth, a nerve, or to perforate
the maxillary sinus. Usually these problems are not
significant; however, additional dental or medical
treatment may be necessary.
Local anesthetic may be used when these devices
are inserted or removed, which also has risks.
Please advise the doctor placing the device if you
have had any difficulties with dental anesthetics in
the past.
If any of the complications mentioned above do
occur, a referral may be necessary to your family
dentist or another dental or medical specialist for
further treatment. Fees for these services are not
included in the cost for orthodontic treatment.
Notes
PATIENT’S COPY
Results of Treatment
Orthodontic treatment usually proceeds as planned,
a
nd we intend to do everything possible to achieve
the best results for every patient. However, we
c
annot guarantee that you will be completely satis-
fied with your results, nor can all complications
o
r consequences be anticipated. The success of
treatment depends on your cooperation in keeping
a
ppointments, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoid-
ing loose or broken appliances, and following the
o
rthodontist’s instructions carefully.
Length of Treatment
The length of treatment depends on a number of
i
ssues, including the severity of the problem, the
patient’s growth and the level of patient cooperation.
T
he actual treatment time is usually close to the
estimated treatment time, but treatment may be
l
engthened if, for example, unanticipated growth
occurs, if there are habits affecting the dentofacial
s
tructures, if periodontal or other dental problems
occur, or if patient cooperation is not adequate.
T
herefore, changes in the original treatment plan
may become necessary. If treatment time is extend-
e
d beyond the original estimate, additional fees may
be assessed.
Discomfort
The mouth is very sensitive so you can expect an
adjustment period and some discomfort due to
the introduction of orthodontic appliances. Non-
prescription pain medication can be used during
this adjustment period.
Relapse
Completed orthodontic treatment does not guaran-
tee perfectly straight teeth for the rest of your life.
Retainers will be required to keep your teeth in their
new positions as a result of your orthodontic treat-
ment. You must wear your retainers as instructed or
teeth may shift, in addition to other adverse effects.
Regular retainer wear is often necessary for several
years following orthodontic treatment. However,
changes after that time can occur due to natural
causes, including habits such as tongue thrusting,
mouth breathing, and growth and maturation that con-
tinue throughout life. Later in life, most people will
see their teeth shift. Minor irregularities, particularly
in the lower front teeth, may have to be accepted.
Some changes may require additional orthodontic
treatment or, in some cases, surgery. Some situa-
tions may require non-removable retainers or other
dental appliances made by your family dentist.
Extractions
Some cases will require the removal of deciduous
(baby) teeth or permanent teeth. There are additional
risks associated with the removal of teeth which
you should discuss with your family dentist or oral
surgeon prior to the procedure.
Orthognathic Surgery
Some patients have significant skeletal disharmonies
which require orthodontic treatment in conjunction
with orthognathic (dentofacial) surgery. There are
additional risks associated with this surgery which
you should discuss with your oral and/or maxillofa-
cial surgeon prior to beginning orthodontic treatment.
P
lease be aware that orthodontic treatment prior to
o
rthognathic surgery often only aligns the teeth
within the individual dental arches. Therefore,
p
atients discontinuing orthodontic treatment without
completing the planned surgical procedures may
h
ave a malocclusion that is worse than when they
began treatment!
Decalcification and Dental Caries
E
xcellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic
t
reatment as are regular visits to your family dentist.
I
nadequate or improper hygiene could result in
cavities, discolored teeth, periodontal disease and/
o
r decalcification. These same problems can occur
without orthodontic treatment, but the risk is greater
t
o an individual wearing braces or other appliances.
These problems may be aggravated if the patient
h
as not had the benefit of fluoridated water or its
substitute, or if the patient consumes sweetened
b
everages or foods.
Root Resorption
The roots of some patients’ teeth become shorter
(resorption) during orthodontic treatment. It is not
k
nown exactly what causes root resorption, nor is it
possible to predict which patients will experience it.
However, many patients have retained teeth through -
out life with severely shortened roots. If resorption
is detected during orthodontic treatment, your
orthodontist may recommend a pause in treatment
or the removal of the appliances prior to the com-
pletion of orthodontic treatment.
Nerve Damage
A tooth that has been traumatized by an accident or
deep decay may have experienced damage to the
nerve of the tooth. Orthodontic tooth movement may,
in some cases, aggravate this condition. In some
cases, root canal treatment may be necessary. In
severe cases, the tooth or teeth may be lost.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum and bone) disease can develop or
worsen during orthodontic treatment due to many
factors, but most often due to the lack of adequate
oral hygiene. You must have your general dentist,
or if indicated, a periodontist monitor your periodon-
tal health during orthodontic treatment every three
to six months. If periodontal problems cannot be
controlled, orthodontic treatment may have to be
discontinued prior to completion.
Injury From Orthodontic Appliances
Activities or foods which could damage, loosen or
dislodge orthodontic appliances need to be avoided.
Loosened or damaged orthodontic appliances
can be inhaled or swallowed or could cause other
damage to the patient. You should inform your
orthodontist of any unusual symptoms or of any
loose or broken appliances as soon as they are
noticed. Damage to the enamel of a tooth or to a
restoration (crown, bonding, veneer, etc.) is possible
when ortho dontic appliances are removed. This
problem may be more likely when esthetic (clear or
tooth colored) appliances have been selected. If
damage to a tooth or restoration occurs, restoration
of the involved tooth/teeth by your dentist may be
necessary.
Headgears
Orthodontic headgears can cause injury to the patient.
I
njuries can include damage to the face or eyes.
In the event of injury or especially an eye injury,
h
owever minor, immediate medical help should be
sought. Refrain from wearing headgear in situations
w
here there may be a chance that it could be
dislodged or pulled off. Sports activities and games
s
hould be avoided when wearing orthodontic
headgear.
Temporomandibular (Jaw)
J
oint Dysfunction
P
roblems may occur in the jaw joints, i.e., temporo-
mandibular joints (TMJ), causing pain, headaches or
e
ar problems. Many factors can affect the health of
t
he jaw joints, including past trauma (blows to the
head or face), arthritis, hereditary tendency to jaw
j
oint problems, excessive tooth grinding or clenching,
poorly balanced bite, and many medical conditions.
J
aw joint problems may occur with or without ortho-
dontic treatment. Any jaw joint symptoms, including
p
ain, jaw popping or difficulty opening or closing,
should be promptly reported to the orthodontist.
T
reatment by other medical or dental specialists
may be necessary.
Impacted, Ankylosed,
Unerupted Teeth
Teeth may become impacted (trapped below the bone
or gums), ankylosed (fused to the bone) or just fail
to erupt. Oftentimes, these conditions occur for no
apparent reason and generally cannot be anticipated.
Treatment of these conditions depends on the partic-
ular circumstance and the overall importance of the
involved tooth, and may require extraction, surgical
exposure, surgical transplantation or prosthetic
replacement.
Occlusal Adjustment
You can expect minimal imperfections in the way
your teeth meet following the end of treatment. An
occlusal equilibration procedure may be necessary,
which is a grinding method used to fine-tune the
occlusion. It may also be necessary to remove
a small amount of enamel in between the teeth,
thereby “flattening” surfaces in order to reduce the
possibility of a relapse.
Non-Ideal Results
Due to the wide variation in the size and shape of
the teeth, missing teeth, etc., achievement of an
ideal result (for example, complete closure of a
space) may not be possible. Restorative dental
treatment, such as esthetic bonding, crowns or
bridges or periodontal therapy, may be indicated.
You are encouraged to ask your orthodontist and
family dentist about adjunctive care.
Third Molars
As third molars (wisdom teeth) develop, your teeth
may change alignment. Your dentist and/or ortho-
dontist should monitor them in order to determine
when and if the third molars need to be removed.
Continued on next page
Patient or Parent/Guardian Initials ___________
Patient or Parent/Guardian Initials ___________
Patient _________________________________ Date _________________
Allergies
Occasionally, patients can be allergic to some of
t
he component materials of their orthodontic appli-
ances. This may require a change in treatment plan
o
r discontinuance of treatment prior to completion.
Although very uncommon, medical management of
d
ental material allergies may be necessary.
General Health Problems
G
eneral health problems such as bone, blood or
e
ndocrine disorders, and many prescription and
non-prescription drugs (including bisphosphonates)
c
an affect your orthodontic treatment. It is imperative
that you inform your ortho dontist of any changes in
y
our general health status.
Use of Tobacco Products
S
moking or chewing tobacco has been shown to
increase the risk of gum disease and interferes with
h
ealing after oral surgery. Tobacco users are also
more prone to oral cancer, gum recession, and
delayed tooth movement during orthodontic treat-
ment. If you use tobacco, you must carefully consider
t
he possibility of a compromised orthodontic result.
Temporary Anchorage Devices
Your treatment may include the use of a temporary
anchorage device(s) (i.e. metal screw or plate
attached to the bone.) There are specific risks
associated with them.
It is possible that the screw(s) could become loose
which would require its/their removal and possibly
relocation or replacement with a larger screw. The
screw and related material may be accidentally
swallowed. If the device cannot be stabilized for
an adequate length of time, an alternate treatment
plan may be necessary.
It is possible that the tissue around the device could
become inflamed or infected, or the soft tissue could
grow over the device, which could also require its
removal, surgical excision of the tissue and/or the
use of antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses.
It is possible that the screws could break (i.e. upon
insertion or removal.) If this occurs, the broken
piece may be left in your mouth or may be surgically
removed. This may require referral to another den-
tal specialist.
When inserting the device(s), it is possible to
damage the root of a tooth, a nerve, or to perforate
the maxillary sinus. Usually these problems are not
significant; however, additional dental or medical
treatment may be necessary.
Local anesthetic may be used when these devices
are inserted or removed, which also has risks.
Please advise the doctor placing the device if you
have had any difficulties with dental anesthetics in
the past.
If any of the complications mentioned above do
occur, a referral may be necessary to your family
dentist or another dental or medical specialist for
further treatment. Fees for these services are not
included in the cost for orthodontic treatment.
DOCTOR’S COPY
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I hereby acknowledge that I have read and
fully understand the treatment considera-
tions and risks presented in this form.
I also understand that there may be other
problems that occur less frequently than
those presented, and that actual results
may differ from the anticipated results.
I also acknowledge that I have discussed
this form with the undersigned orthodon-
tist(s) and have been given the opportunity
to ask any questions. I have been asked
to make a choice about my treatment. I
hereby consent to the treatment proposed
and authorize the orthodontist(s) indicated
below to provide the treatment. I also
authorize the orthodontist(s) to provide my
health care information to my other health
care providers. I understand that my treat-
ment fee covers only treatment provided
by the orthodontist(s), and that treatment
provided by other dental or medical pro-
fessionals is not included in the fee for
my orthodontic treatment.
Signature of Patient/Parent/Guardian Date
Signature of Orthodontist/Group Name Date
Witness Date
CONSENT TO UNDERGO
ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
I hereby consent to the making of diagnos-
tic records, including x-rays, before, during
and following orthodontic treatment, and to
the above doctor(s) and, where appropriate,
staff providing orthodontic treatment
prescribed by the above doctor(s) for the
above individual. I fully understand all of
the risks associated with the treatment.
AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF
PATIENT INFORMATION
I hereby authorize the above doctor(s) to
provide other health care providers with
information regarding the above individual’s
orthodontic care as deemed appropriate.
I understand that once released, the above
doctor(s) and staff has(have) no responsibili-
ty for any further release by the individual
receiving this information.
TRANSFERRING PATIENT
Or thodontic treatments var y widely.
Transfer will likely increase treatment fees,
may involve changes in payment policies,
and may change your treatment and/or
appliances. When you transfer to a new
orthodontist, your treatment time is often
extended by the process of transfer.
CONSENT TO USE OF RECORDS
I hereby give my permission for the use of
orthodontic records, including photographs,
made in the process of examinations,
treatment, and retention for purposes of
professional consultations, research, educa-
tion, or publication in professional journals.
Signature Date
Witness Date
I have the legal authority to sign this on behalf of
Name of Patient
Relationship to Patient
Notes
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© 2019 American Association of Orthodontists