[Risks of orthodontic treatment]

Risks of orthodontic treatment identified in the literature are: enamel damage, root resorption, periodontal damage, temporomandibular disorders, tooth devitalization, treatment failure, and relapse. Enamel damage in the form of irreversible demineralization can take place during treatment with fixed appliances in the absence of adequate oral hygiene. Root resorption occurs, but seldom to the point of clinical relevance. Individual susceptibility and genetics are determining factors. Periodontal damage occurs as gingival recessions. Temporomandibular disorders and tooth devitalization hardly occur. Treatment failure is related to the assessed pre-treatment goals and dependent on the knowledge and skills of the care provider, patient-cooperation, and factors beyond anyone's control. Relapse is a common feature, but does not constitute a treatment risk. The greatest risk is a failure to adequately inform the patient concerning all of the (im)possibilities and their consequences.