When it comes to oral health, the condition of the gums can be key. Proper brushing, flossing and the prevention of gingivitis can support good gum health; however, when individuals suffer from crooked teeth, an underbite or an overbite and choose to get braces, this may cause problems with the gingiva. Dental patients who want to repair uneven smiles should be aware of these issues, especially receding gums, which can cause pain and eventually tooth loss.
While braces can be beneficial for repairing uneven smiles by shifting teeth into new positions, they can also have a negative impact on the mouth’s gum tissue. As the braces push and pull on the teeth to move them into the desired position, they may also affect the jawbone that surrounds the teeth. This can cause a variety of problems:
Over time, as bone loss occurs, loss of the gum tissue may happen as well, which can result in receding gums. Individuals who are considering braces may want to understand what kind of risk factors may be involved and whether this problem can be avoided during and after the straightening process.
Some people may already have underlying risks for receding gums, so it is important to understand them before choosing to wear braces. Those with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, may be more prone to this problem. A complete oral exam and a discussion of a patient’s medical history, including gum problems that run in the family, can allow dentists to help these individuals make the best possible choice when it comes to straightening teeth.
If dental patients with crooked teeth experience interference with chewing or speaking or significant pain, then braces could repair these issues. If there is no evidence of gum disease or a history of periodontal problems, people fitted with braces may be able to avoid gum recession by following a few simple dental habits. Once the braces are fitted, wearers should brush more gently with a soft-bristled brush to avoid wearing away the gingiva. Consistent dental checkups to adjust the braces and inspect ongoing gum health can also help prevent gum damage.
Nontraditional braces such as clear aligners may lower the risk of gum recession because the devices are switched out as the teeth are shifted into place. Those considering braces can ask a dentist if these aligners may be a better choice when it comes to preventing periodontal pockets and other gum issues that lead to gingivitis.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: dental services in Saratoga Springs, NY.
While braces can help straighten teeth and give users the confidence to smile more often, these dental implements can also cause receding gums that can lead to oral health issues. When those who choose to wear braces understand the risks and how to protect their gingiva, the outcome is more likely to be a positive one.
Request an appointment or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at 518-675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.
Receding gums can be a symptom of gum disease, or they can be caused by poor oral hygiene habits, like brushing too hard. Some people also have a genetic predisposition toward developing gum recession. Regardless of the cause, gum recession leaves teeth roots exposed to acids in the mouth. This increases their risk of decay,…
The National Institutes of Health conducted a survey about receding gums. The results show that half of the adults in America have at least one area of gum recession. This study shows how prevalent this condition is, yet many people do not know when to seek treatment. Additionally, many people do not understand the factors…
Receding gums expose the teeth roots, making them vulnerable to heat, cold, pressure, corrosion, and harmful mouth bacteria. The exposure also makes your teeth appear longer than they should be, which can affect the look of your smile.A dentist might recommend gum grafting to correct gum recession. Here is how to know if a gum…
Dental implants can be an effective tooth replacement option for anyone missing one or a few teeth or those needing all their teeth replaced. Many consider implants state-of-the-art tooth replacement. However, to enjoy this option's many benefits, the patient must be a suitable candidate for the procedure. Here are some key factors to take into…
Receding gums can be a symptom of gum disease, or they can be caused by poor oral hygiene habits, like brushing too hard. Some people also have a genetic predisposition toward developing gum recession. Regardless of the cause, gum recession leaves teeth roots exposed to acids in the mouth. This increases their risk of decay,…