Dear colleagues
Today, I'd like to delve into a topic that warrants attention in our practice - the potential impact of injectable lip fillers on orthodontic stability. Not only in clear aligner treatments but also on patients with no previous need for orthodontic treatment.
While these fillers are commonly sought for cosmetic enhancement, their implications for orthodontic stability merit consideration. Here's a comprehensive look at how injectable lip fillers may influence long-term orthodontic results:
Alteration of lip position.
One significant concern of the injectable fillers, when administered in excess, is that they
can alter the position of the lips, particularly if they increase lip volume or projection. Changes in lip position may affect the balance between the lips and teeth, potentially causing lip protrusion or retrusion. This altered lip position can disrupt the occlusion and function of the anterior teeth achieved through orthodontic treatment, potentially leading to relapse or changes in tooth position over time.
Interference with Orthodontic Appliances
Furthermore, the presence of lip fillers may interfere with the efficacy and placement of orthodontic appliances, such as braces or clear aligners. If the filler material protrudes beyond the natural lip contour, it can create pressure on orthodontic brackets, clear aligners and attachments, leading to discomfort or difficulty with appliance placement.
If the lips exert pressure on orthodontic components, it may lead to a potential hindrance to treatment progress.
Over time, as fillers undergo natural degradation, alterations in lip volume and contour may ensue. These soft tissue changes have the potential to undermine the stability of orthodontic outcomes, particularly by disrupting lip support and facial aesthetics.
Consequently, orthodontic relapse or unfavourable tooth movements may manifest as a consequence of filler degradation.
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Treatment planning
Ideally the patient stops using fillers and the treatment starts when the lips have regained their natural shape and size. This makes treatment planning easier as it is easier to figure out where to position the anterior teeth to support the soft tissues the best. Secondly it increases the predictability of the treatment outcome as there will be less changes in the soft tissue during the orthodontic treatment.
However making all patients stop using fillers prior to- and during a clear aligner treatment is unrealistic. To increase predictability and decrease the risks a collaborative treatment planning between the dentist and the doctor responsible for the injectable lip fillers is paramount to gain orthodontic stability during and after treatment.
Close coordination facilitates the alignment of treatment modalities and enables proactive measures to address potential complications.
Patient education
Patients receiving injectable lip fillers should be informed about potential interactions with orthodontic treatment and the importance of regular monitoring. Dentists performing clear aligner therapy should advise patients to notify them of any changes in lip volume or position following filler injections, as these changes may necessitate adjustments to orthodontic treatment plans to maintain stability.
In addition I believe it is important to state that the long term stability of the anterior teeth and the occlusion of the patient can be challenged when the dimensions of the lips change over time.
Patients without indication for orthodontic treatment
If you have patients with no indication for orthodontic treatment, that have their appearance modified with lip fillers or muscle relaxants like Botox. It is important to inform them about the potential side effects this can have on their anterior teeth. It is not uncommon to see teeth start moving when the dynamics of the lips and muscles of the mouth change. If there is no indication for orthodontic treatment a clear aligner can be used as a retainer at night. That may help keeping the teeth in position.
Injectable lip fillers and orthodontic stability
In summary, while injectable lip fillers offer aesthetic enhancement, their impact on long-term orthodontic stability cannot be overlooked. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and vigilant patient management, we can navigate these challenges and ensure optimal treatment outcomes for our patients.
Thank you for your attention to this important aspect.
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Warm regards
Jesper Hatt DDS
Phone: +41 78 268 0078
AlignerService helps dentists create realistic, safe and predictable treatment plans with clear aligners.
Currently, we help approximately 1500 dental practices in 19 different countries. AlignerService is a preferred partner of ClearCorrect.
In addition AlignerService clear aligner experts work with Invisalign, SureSmile and Spark.