Abstract

In this present era, when a significant number of patients seeking orthodontic treatment are adults, importance of interdisciplinary treatment approach cannot be overemphasized. Higher susceptibility of plaque accumulation in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment makes involvement of periodontal treatment almost unavoidable.

Orthodontic treatment aims at providing acceptable functional and aesthetic occlusions using appropriate tooth movements. These movements are specifically related to interactions of the teeth with their supportive periodontal tissues. Periodontic and orthodontic interactions usually deal with the establishment of an appropriate diagnosis and the treatment planning needed to enable coordinated perio-ortho therapy. Also, orthodontic treatment frequently results in undesirable periodontal changes which require immediate attention. More recently, orthodontics has been used as an adjunct to periodontics to increase connective tissue support and alveolar bone height. The purpose of this article is to review the adverse effects of orthodontic treatment on the periodontal tissues and to discuss the mutually beneficial relationship shared between the two specialties.

Keywords: Orthodontics; Periodontium; Periodontal disease