DIY Orthodontic Relapse Correction Gone Wrong: A case study

The purpose of this case report is to present the clinical impacts and outcomes of a patient who applied a non-professionally (‘do it yourself’ (DIY)) orthodontic treatment to correct a midline diastema post orthodontic relapse. The patient presented for preventative dental hygiene care with a chief complaint of pain and swelling surrounding teeth #8 and #9. The patient reported that a midline diastema appeared after she lost the orthodontic retainer and used rubber bands every night for approximately four years to close the diastema. The DIY orthodontic treatment of the maxillary central incisors caused rapid and severe bone loss, loss of function and pain for the patient. This case highlights the negative impact on periodontal health with DIY orthodontic treatment, ultimately resulting in extraction and implants to restore function and esthetics. It is important that dental and allied oral health professionals are aware of DIY orthodontic trends on social media in order to educate and counsel patients on the consequences to their oral health.