OFFSTONE JUNE EDITION 2025

74 A common misunderstanding suggests that the results will remain straight for the rest of their life once braces or aligners are removed. However, scientific evidence has shown that teeth may “relapse” or return to their pre -treatment alignment due to biological factors such as periodontal ligament memory. Therefore, orthodontists will prescribe retainers, an appliance to retain the position of the teeth. These retainers may be “fixed, “glued to the teeth, or removable. Removable retainers may be removed while eating, drinking, playing sports, and brushing the teeth. Without retention, teeth may return to their original positions, necessitating retreatment. Social media influencers often downplay the necessity of long-term retainer use, misleading patients about post-treatment maintenance. Recently, a case was reported on a patient who sought professional care due to persistent pain and swelling around the upper central incisors. According to her complaint, she informed us that she had misplaced her orthodontic retainer and that a gap had developed between her upper front teeth. She then placed rubber bands on her upper front teeth at night to close the gap. Unfortunately, this unregulated intervention led to persistent pain and swelling around the upper teeth. Upon radiographic examination, the orthodontist found severe bone loss on the upper front teeth. The damage to the periodontal structures was extensive, necessitating the extraction of the affected teeth and subsequent dental implants to restore function and aesthetics. This case reinforces the serious periodontal consequences associated with unsupervised intervention and emphasizes the need for professional assessment and management. Closing Individuals should seek information from dental health professionals to make informed decisions about their oral health. It is important to verify the information source when researching orthodontic treatment online. Engaging in unverified do-it-yourself intervention may lead to irreversible damage. In Islam, we are encouraged to seek professional advice from experts, as stated in the Qur’an: "Ask the people of knowledge if you do not know." (Surah An-Nahl 16:43). The best way to get accurate information to seek consultation from an orthodontist in the clinic! BIBLIOGRAPHY Alassiry, A. M. (2019). Orthodontic retainers: A contemporary overview. Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice, 20 (7), 857 – 862. Meade, M. J., Poirier, B., Ju, X., & Jamieson, L. (2023). Orthodontic patient experiences shared on social media: A scoping review. Seminars in Orthodontics, 29 (4), 326 – 334. WB Saunders.