The effect of orthodontic treatment on the periodontium and soft tissue esthetics in adult patients

Objective Most patients seek orthodontic treatment to achieve an esthetic outcome. Orthodontic treatment has possible negative sequelae. The aim of this study is to assess these possible effects on the periodontium and tissue esthetics. Methods One hundred fifty‐six patients who have completed orthodontic treatment at Jordan University of Science and Technology clinics were recruited. They were divided into extraction and nonextraction subgroups. Another 155 patients never undergoing orthodontic treatment were assessed. The height of papilla, width of keratinized gingiva, gingival recession, degree of tooth display, smile line, crestal bone level, and proximal caries were assessed. Chi‐ square test was used for categorical/discrete variables while independent t‐test was used for continuous variables. The level of significance was set at (p ≤ 0.05). Results The mean age was 22 years with no significant difference between the groups. There was a significant difference between “ortho” and “nonortho” groups in tooth display and keratinized gingiva (p = 0.006 and