If you’re thinking about getting braces, you might have some questions and concerns. One common worry is whether braces can cause gum recession.
While it’s true that wearing braces can sometimes lead to changes in your gums, the good news is that gum recession caused by braces is rare and can often be prevented with proper care.
Let’s explore the connection between braces and gum health, how to prevent gum issues, and what to do if you notice any signs of gum recession.
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Braces and Gum Disease
Braces are an effective way to straighten teeth and improve your smile, but they can also make cleaning your teeth a little trickier. Food particles can get stuck around the brackets and wires, which increases the risk of plaque buildup.
If plaque isn’t removed, it can lead to:
- Gum inflammation
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Tooth enamel erosion
However, with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, you can keep your gums healthy while wearing braces.
How to maintain oral hygiene with braces
Keeping your gums healthy while wearing braces is essential to prevent issues like gum inflammation or plaque buildup. Although braces can make cleaning more challenging, following these simple tips will help maintain good oral hygiene:
- Brush After Meals: Clean around brackets and wires with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: Use a floss threader to reach between teeth.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: Kill bacteria and reduce plaque.
- Limit Sugary Snacks: Avoid foods that can stick to your braces.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Keep up with professional cleanings and checkups.
By sticking to these habits, you can reduce the risk of gum problems and ensure that your smile stays bright and healthy while you’re wearing braces.
Can I get braces with periodontal disease?
If you already have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, it’s important to treat it before starting orthodontic treatment.
Braces add pressure to your gums, so starting with healthy gums lowers the risk of issues. Your orthodontist or dentist can guide you on the best way to manage your gum health during treatment.
Will my gums go back to normal after braces?
In most cases, your gums will return to normal once your braces are removed, especially if you’ve taken good care of them during treatment.
Any swelling or minor irritation caused by braces will usually resolve on its own. If you notice more significant gum changes, your dentist may recommend treatments like deep cleaning or other procedures to restore gum health.
Can retainers cause gum recession?
Retainers, help maintain your smile after orthodontic treatment. While retainers themselves don’t typically cause gum recession.
Gum recession is mostly caused by poor hygiene, which can lead to gum irritation. Follow your dentist’s instructions on properly cleaning and wearing your retainer to maintain healthy gums.
Is Gum Recession Normal?
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or even its root.
This can make teeth look longer and increase sensitivity. While some gum recession is normal as people age, it’s not something you should expect to happen because of braces.
Can be reversed?
The answer depends on how advanced the gum recession is. In the early stages, it may be possible to stop or reverse gum recession by:
- Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating your gums.
- Floss Daily: Prevent plaque buildup that can worsen gum recession.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can damage gum tissue and slow healing.
- Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Reduce bacteria that cause gum disease.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Get professional cleanings and early treatment if needed.
In more advanced cases, your dentist may recommend procedures such as gum grafts to restore lost tissue.
Stay Gum-Healthy While Wearing Braces
If you’re thinking about getting braces but are worried about the cost, Somos Dental has you covered. We offer the most affordable braces in Phoenix and Dallas, with flexible payment plans that don’t require insurance.
Visit us at any of our clinics in Phoenix and Dallas.
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Our goal is to make orthodontic treatment accessible to everyone.
Call 623-869-1091 or schedule a FREE CONSULTATION online. Reach out through WhatsApp, Messenger, or SMS now!
While the idea of gum recession might sound scary, it’s important to remember that it’s rare when braces are worn correctly and oral hygiene is maintained. With proper care and regular checkups, you can enjoy the benefits of a straighter smile without worrying about gum health.
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