Invisalign has exploded in popularity over the last decade, as people discover a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces. As with all cosmetic dental procedures, patients often have a number of questions about the safety of a particular treatment. With Invisalign, a common concern is the impact of the aligners on the gums, but can Invisalign cause gum damage?
Gum Health and Invisalign
One of the key components of successful orthodontic treatment is good gum health, and your orthodontist will ensure your gum health is stabilized before any treatment plan is undertaken. Your gums are an essential part of your mouth’s structure, and poor gum health can cause issues with the bone which surrounds your teeth, as well as your overall oral health. Poor gum health can have a negative impact on the strength of your teeth, and can even lead to them becoming loose if not addressed.
This relationship between the gums and the teeth means that healthy gums are a key part of orthodontic treatment. Having healthy gums is essential for the treatment to be successful, and the proper alignment of your teeth following treatment will help you maintain better gum health.
Can Invisalign Damage Gums?
If your gums are in good health prior to treatment starting, Invisalign will not directly lead to gum damage. When compared with traditional braces, Invisalign allows patients to maintain better gum health as they are able to brush and floss far more effectively.
What some patients experience with Invisalign is gum recession, which is when the gum lowers its position on the tooth and can expose the roots of the teeth. This is unlikely in the majority of Invisalign patients, particularly those with healthy gums prior to treatment, due to the specific way the retainers are designed to fit.
On rare occasions, when a patient experiences recession, your dentist can perform a simple frenectomy procedure to resolve the issue. This involves moving or removing the muscular attachment between two tissues, which stops them from moving too far. Your dentist may discuss this with you if they have concerns about this issue.
Invisalign is generally a very safe treatment for the vast majority of people, and any minor issues can be addressed with your dentist before or during your treatment plan. They will ensure your oral health is good enough to effectively cope with the treatment before your treatment begins, so there is very little risk of gum damage with Invisalign.