Side Effects

Slimming Wires Side Effects

Slimming wires (jaw wiring for weight loss) can cause a range of side effects affecting both oral health and overall well-being[1].

  • Short-term discomfort and pain: Initial fitting and adjustment of slimming wires can cause soreness and pain as the jaw adapts[1].
  • Oral health issues: These include enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation, and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene. Poor cleaning leads to plaque buildup, increasing the risk of gum disease, cavities, decay, and mouth odor[1][2][3][4][5].
  • Loose teeth or tooth damage: The pressure from wires can make teeth loose or prone to cavities[2][4].
  • Difficulty speaking and eating: Wired jaws limit mouth movement, affecting speech clarity and restricting the patient to a liquid or pureed diet[1][6].
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Restricted diets often lack essential nutrients, risking malnutrition, anemia, light-headedness, and other deficiencies, especially when the wires are in place for an extended period[3][5][6].
  • Choking hazards: Inability to properly chew or open the mouth raises the risk of choking, particularly if vomiting occurs. Patients are advised to carry wire cutters for emergencies[6][7].
  • Infection risk: Surgical procedures for wiring carry risks of infection, bleeding, and nerve injury, resulting in numbness or tingling[1][7].
  • Psychological effects: Jaw wiring can cause or worsen anxiety, frustration, and disordered eating. Rapid weight gain and binge eating are reported once the wires are removed[2][3][4].
  • Allergic reactions or metal sensitivities: Some patients react to metals used in the wires[1].
  • Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD): There is a risk of developing jaw joint problems due to immobilization[3].

References

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