Are braces medically necessary?

[Meander]

I have no cavities, never had. I am a 35 year old woman with a class II overbite. My mouth is completely pain free and I am comfortable with my appearance.

My dentist is telling me that inevitably the overbite will cause bone loss, cavities, and result in the need for major surgery. However, my father (74 year old male, incredibly bad dental hygeine practices) has an identical overbite and has had no difficulties whatsoever including no decay. Also my brother and sister could practically be my "teeth twins" regarding our class two overbites. Both are older, one 45 and the other 41. Both have never had any issues with their overbites. My sister has lots of cavities (5) but they are in the back of her mouth. My dentist claims that not correcting my overbite will have serious consequences. I'm very concerned with this, I don't want cavities or to lose any teeth but having orthognathic surgery, a procedure that is done under general anesthesia and causes loss of working days and has some risks, and getting braces both at a substantial financial investment is of concern to me. He claims having an uncorrected overbite gives me a risk of having serious medical/dental issues similar to the increase in risk of lung cancer I'd have if I smoked two packs of cigarettes a day instead of none.

What are the figures, the statistics for the number of major complications resulting from uncorrected overbites? Particularly the requirement for major surgery as a result of uncorrected overbites.

[metalmouthdramalicious]

I'm no doctor, but I think you should go to one or to consultations with trained orthodontists. If they say there is no medical need for braces, then don't get them.

[Dr. Randall]

There is rarely a medical need for orthodontic treatment. And while patients with malocclusions are very slightly more likely to have some issues in the future, I don't think that selling fear is appropriate. I think that educating a patient of what MIGHT happen, but reassuring them that not pursuing treatment is an acceptable option.

Nothing horrible will happen if you don't treat it. Some things might happen, but no one can say with certainty. Only do the treatment if you see the reasons why you would benefit and actually want to see that benefit.

Randall

[Meander]

Thank you so much for your speedy reply! You have set my mind greatly at ease. My dentist made it seem like something awful would surely happen.
Thanks Again!