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 Google: dental services in Bellevue, WA.
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 Artisan Dental at 425-454-2005 for an appointment in our Bellevue office.
Dental restorations procedures repair damaged or decayed teeth and improve their appearance. Multiple restoration procedures are available today, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. The following article presents the various options for dental restoration procedures and which may be the most effective treatment option for you and your smile.Dental fillings are the most common type…
A dental restoration can improve your appearance and dental health. Your dentist can help you prepare for your procedure. The consultation can also tell you how you should care for your new smile. Here are the details if you want to know how to maintain your dental restoration for lasting results.Some fluoride treatments and toothpaste…
Choosing an extraction over a dental restoration can be easy for some people, especially if the pain is intense. For others, sacrificing a natural tooth would be devastating. Consulting a dentist about the final decision is important. Here are the details on whether the better option is dental restoration or extraction.The dentist can assess the…
