Navigating oral medicine and pathology in orthodontic treatment

Abstract

Orthodontic treatment intersects with oral medicine and pathology, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to patient care. This review examines the identification, management, and orthodontic implications of conditions that may predate orthodontic care, arise during treatment, or have a history of recurrence. Key topics include ulcerative lesions such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) and recurrent aphthous stomatitis, benign soft tissue masses like fibromas, frictional keratosis, and traumatic ulcers, as well as intraosseous jaw lesions. The manuscript also explores systemic conditions and hypersensitivity reactions, including allergic contact stomatitis and lichenoid responses to dental materials, along with common reactive gingival pathologies like pyogenic granuloma and peripheral ossifying fibroma. By prioritizing conditions that are frequently encountered in orthodontic settings, this review provides evidence-based guidance to optimize treatment planning, minimize disruptions, and enhance patient outcomes. Additionally, this review highlights the importance of early detection, tailored management strategies, and collaboration with appropriate medical and dental specialists. By integrating oral medicine principles into orthodontic care, orthodontists can address both pre-existing and treatment-related pathologies, ensuring a holistic approach that supports both orthodontic success and overall oral health.