Has Orthodontic Treatment Ended? Learn How to Self-Assess!

• Is it necessary to learn self-assessment?

Before delving into this question, let’s first address a common doubt: Isn’t it the orthodontist’s responsibility to determine the conclusion of one’s orthodontic treatment? Is it necessary to learn this oneself?

Learning to self-assess the completion of orthodontic treatment is indeed crucial, especially for patients with complex dental conditions. Due to significant tooth movement in their treatment plans, some patients may find it challenging to adapt their bite after the movements, causing psychological uncertainty. Understanding standards for the conclusion of orthodontic treatment allows individuals to objectively differentiate whether repeated adjustments are due to flaws in the treatment plan or psychological factors.

• How to assess the completion of orthodontic treatment

Understanding the significance of self-assessment, let’s discuss the criteria for evaluating the conclusion of orthodontic treatment. Generally, this involves three main aspects:

a. Dental Alignment

For patients, this is the most direct way to gauge completion. Post-orthodontic treatment, patients  should assess whether their teeth are aligned correctly, such as checking if previously misaligned teeth have been corrected and crowded teeth are now arranged neatly. Patients often compare their current dental arrangement with the initial treatment plan, looking for correction of previously discussed dental problems, or simply visually inspect by opening their mouths and saying “ah.”

b. Occlusal Relationship

Apart from dental alignment, the occlusal relationship is essential. According to Angle’s 

classification, a neutral bite relationship indicates stability. If no movement is observed between teeth when biting, as judged by the orthodontist, then it’s considered a proper bite relationship. If certain teeth, like incisors, shift during biting, it indicates an incomplete bite alignment, implying tooth misalignment still exists, which requires further adjustment.

c. Facial Relationships

Jaw malformations often accompany facial issues, such as high palates, protruding mouths, or small chins, involving dental or skeletal problems. Comparisons through pre-treatment and post-treatment photos or X-rays highlight changes in facial structure. Severe facial problems may necessitate combined orthodontic and surgical intervention. If facial concerns persist despite the orthodontic treatment’s conclusion, discussing these unresolved issues with the orthodontist becomes crucial.

• Which issues do not affect the end of orthodontic treatment?

After a year or two of invisible orthodontic treatment, some patients may worry about past misfits or attachment loss affecting treatment completion. In essence, if dental alignment, bite relationship, and facial improvements meet expectations, issues encountered during the treatment won’t impede its conclusion. Problems like cavities or oral ulcers don’t impact orthodontic completion. In summary, once satisfied with dental conditions and achieved treatment goals as per the plan, it’s appropriate to end orthodontic treatment and transition to wearing retainers regularly.

Finally, some patients might persist in seeking unattainable outcomes, leading to repeated adjustments beyond their dental needs. For these individuals, concluding orthodontic treatment involves both physiological and psychological aspects. However, if a self-assessment reveals you’re ready to conclude your treatment objectively, it’s a moment to muster courage and move past the psychological barrier!