Dear Dentist,
My orthodontist has applied an "outrigger" hook appliance with my braces. Apparently, my teeth haven't moved enough. It is used to remind the patient to wear their elastics. I honestly and truly believe that I am more than competent to deliberate my responsibilities to wear these elastics everyday for the prescribed time. I am in no desired position to take this "reminder" of a device comfortably. Frankly, it is frustrating to wear this device. No matter how meticulous I am with my braces I am still kicked down. However, if an orthodontist applies this device on a patient that HAS been wearing their elastics why would they be utilizing an appliance that is used for non compliant patients on a completely compliant patient? Can the patient deny this appliance?

-Thanks

You as a patient can deny ANY treatment that is recommended. As long as you have been explained the reasons for the recommendation and are making an informed decision.

Absolutely, any patient can deny treatment... however, there are things to do before you make that decision, as the person before said, make sure you are making an informed decision. Now, you must realize that if you do decline a recommended procedure, you may have to look for a different orthodontist as they may refuse to treat you. I have worked for dentists that will discharge a patient if they refuse x-rays for a certain amount of time, they can not treat you without knowing what you need in that case. So with the orthodontist they may feel the same about something they have recommended. It's best to talk to the orthodontist and perhaps they will remove the appliance and see if you can keep up with your homecare, if not, maybe they can reapply the "hook". Just make sure you know everything before you decide... will there be a charge for removing or reapplying this?

Good luck!

How old are you? If you are a minor in the US, your parents can overrule your decision not to have this device.