Do Braces Shorten Your Roots?

In medicine, every intervention carries a risk. In orthodontics, the risk we monitor most closely is Root Resorption—the microscopic shortening of the tooth root.

It sounds alarming. “Will my teeth fall out?”

The short answer is no. Mild blunting of the root tips is common and clinically insignificant. It does not affect the lifespan or stability of the tooth.

However, severe resorption is a problem. And it is almost always caused by one of two things: Genetics or Excessive Force.

The Physics of Force

Teeth move because bone dissolves in front of them (osteoclasts) and rebuilds behind them (osteoblasts).

If you push a tooth too hard, too fast, you crush the blood supply. The body reacts to this trauma by attacking the root structure itself. This is why “Fast Braces” or aggressive timelines can be dangerous.

The Updike Protocol: Low & Slow

We minimize this risk through Engineering.

1. Light Forces: We use heat-activated NiTi wires that apply a fraction of the force of old-school steel wires.
2. Intermittent Force: With Invisalign, the trays are changed weekly, giving the periodontal ligament a rhythm of activation and rest.
3. Monitoring: We take progress X-Rays. If we see any sign of root shortening, we pause treatment.

Who is at Risk?

Some patients are genetically predisposed. If you have a history of root resorption in your family, tell us. We can modify your treatment plan to be even gentler, perhaps accepting a slightly slower timeline to ensure safety.

Your roots are the foundation of your smile. We treat them with respect.