Gum recession is a condition in which the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This can cause the teeth to look longer than normal and can lead to sensitivity and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Gum recession is often caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Poor oral hygiene: A build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth can lead to gum recession.
- Misaligned teeth: Teeth that are not aligned properly can put excess pressure on certain areas of the mouth, causing the gums to recede.
- Grinding or clenching the teeth: This can put excessive pressure on the gums and cause them to recede.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can increase the risk of gum recession.
- Genetic factors: Some people may be more prone to gum recession due to genetics.
Treatment for gum recession typically includes improved oral hygiene, changes to your diet, and possibly gum surgery. However, there is another alternative to helping with gum recession – and that’s Invisalign.
Will Invisalign Cause Gum Recession?
A common question is whether Invisalign will cause gum recession rather than help it.
Simply answered, Invisalign should not cause gum recession. In fact, it may even be helpful in preventing or reducing gum recession in some cases.
However, it is important to note that Invisalign, like any orthodontic treatment, requires proper care and maintenance to be effective. This includes brushing and caring for the aligners as directed by your orthodontist and maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment.
If you are experiencing gum recession, consult with a dental professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. In addition to other treatment options, Invisalign may be recommended as part of your treatment plan to help straighten the teeth and improve overall oral health.
How Invisalign Helps with Gum Recession
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. Invisalign can help with gum recession in a few ways:
- Improving oral hygiene: Gum recession is caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which is often difficult to remove if the teeth are misaligned. By straightening the teeth with Invisalign, it’s easier to clean them properly and prevent gum recession.
- Correcting misaligned teeth: Misaligned teeth put excess pressure on certain areas of the mouth, which causes gum recession. By straightening the teeth with Invisalign, the pressure is evenly distributed across the mouth, helping to prevent gum recession.
- Reducing the need for gum surgery: In some cases, gum recession can be severe enough to require gum surgery. Invisalign can help to correct the alignment of the teeth, potentially reducing the need for surgery.
It is important to note that Invisalign is not a cure for gum recession, but it can help to prevent it or reduce the severity of the condition.
Learn More About Invisalign
In addition to helping with gum recession, Invisalign also offers many other benefits that are not associated with traditional metal braces. For instance, Invisalign is comfortable (no painful wires), removable (brush and floss like normal), ultra-convenient, and practically invisible!
To learn more about Invisalign and see if you’re a qualified candidate, contact us at 301-933-3903 to schedule an appointment.