Your healthcare provider should always be informed about any medication you’re taking regularly, whether by prescription or over the counter. The same applies to our orthodontist at Ortho Inc.. If you are considering, preparing for, or already receiving orthodontic treatment of any type, it’s vitally important for us to be able to gauge whether the medication could have an effect on our ability to achieve the desired results.
With more adults seeking orthodontic treatment nowadays, the likelihood of a drug interaction with our treatment becomes greater. During our initial consultation and as our treatment unfolds, we rely on close communication with our patients to ensure that we’re delivering care that’s safe and produces optimal results.
Among the most popular classes of medications for osteoporosis are the bisphosphonates, including Fosamax and Boniva, which can inhibit tooth movement and thereby delay orthodontic treatment, according to studies cited by National Institute of Health’s National Library of Medicine.
Estrogen can decrease the progression of tooth movement, and oral contraceptives also can influence orthodontic treatment if they are taken over long periods of time.
Medication for hypothyroidism has been shown to affect the speed of tooth movement, depending on the dosage.
Corticosteroids including cortisone, hydrocortisone and prednisone have been found in studies to affect the rate of tooth movement, decreasing the overall stability of orthodontic treatment.
Patients taking immunosuppressant medications following an organ transplant or for autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis can encounter difficulties during orthodontic treatment.
Vitamins, health supplements, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs including aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can also have an effect on orthodontic treatment.
Our orthodontist at Ortho Inc. considers our treatment to be a collaboration that requires communication with our patients to achieve the healthy, beautiful, long-lasting smile they desire. If you have any questions regarding your medication and orthodontic treatment, please contact our office today.
