Can My Gums Recede After Braces

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.

Why braces may cause gum recession

Braces are orthodontic appliances used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, but they can sometimes contribute to gum recession, especially if proper oral hygiene practices are not followed. 

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:

• Loss of bone near or around the teeth
• Periodontal pockets between the teeth
• Gum sensitivity

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.

Risk factors for gum recession

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 in Phoenix, AZ to help these individuals make the best possible choice when it comes to straightening teeth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Braces create more areas for food particles and plaque to accumulate, especially around the brackets and wires. If proper oral hygiene practices are not followed, such as brushing and flossing regularly and using interdental brushes or water flossers to clean around the braces, plaque buildup can lead to gum inflammation and recession. Call usto learn more.

Avoiding gum damage

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 in 85053 if these aligners may be a better choice when it comes to preventing periodontal pockets and other gum issues that lead to gingivitis.

Conclusion

To minimize the risk of gum recession during orthodontic treatment with braces, it's essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene, attend regular dental check-ups, and follow the recommendations of your orthodontist. If you notice signs of gum recession, such as exposed tooth roots or increased tooth sensitivity, it's crucial to consult with your orthodontist or dentist promptly to address the issue and prevent further damage.

Request an appointment or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at 602-547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.