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Clear Aligners and Periodontal Health

Can Clear Aligners Improve Periodontal Health

Improve Periodontal Health?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, impacts many dental patients across the globe.

According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease , and 70.1% of adults 65 years and older struggle with periodontal disease.

It may surprise you to learn that patients with periodontal disease can benefit from undergoing clear aligner therapy, such as those with Invisalign clear aligners. A variety of different factors show that clear aligner therapy improves periodontal health.

This guide discusses oral health and how clear aligners can improve it. It also provides tips for maintaining good oral health and addresses common questions about gum disease and tooth movement.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease involves any disease that targets your gums or the surrounding bone. This includes:

  • Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
  • Gum infection
  • Periodontitis
  • Bone loss
  • Tooth decay
  • Tartar buildup
  • And more

Periodontal disease can be avoided by regularly and adequately brushing and flossing.

Warning Signs and Risk Factors Of Periodontal Disease

Of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, impacts many dental patients across the globe. It's crucial to be aware of the warning signs that can help you detect this condition early.

If you notice symptoms like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or tooth sensitivity, it's time to consult with a dentist or orthodontist. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular tooth-colored teeth cleanings, can go a long way in preventing and managing periodontal disease. Don't delay until the problem worsens; start safeguarding your dental health now. Warning signs include:

  • Awful smelling or tasting breath that won't go away
  • Gums that are any of the following: inflamed, swollen, tender, and/or bleeding
  • It hurts to chew
  • Loose or sensitive teeth
  • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Certain external and internal factors may increase your risk for periodontal disease, including:

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Stress
  • Crooked or misaligned teeth
  • Family medical history
  • Immunodeficiency disorders
  • Lackluster oral hygiene routine
  • Dry mouth caused by medication
  • Unkept restorative dentistry (crowns, bridges, fillings, etc.)

However, suffering from a periodontal disease won't stop you from undergoing orthodontic treatment as long as it is under control. In some cases, orthodontic appliances may even help improve the alignment of your teeth and reduce the need to apply pressure on your gums during chewing, which can be beneficial for individuals with periodontal concerns.

How Do Clear Aligners Improve Periodontal Health?

Periodontal Health?

Orthodontic treatment can play a crucial role in improving your periodontal health by moving your teeth into their proper positions. Once your teeth are correctly aligned, your ability to generate saliva and effectively clean your teeth will greatly improve.

misaligned teeth. By doing so, you'll not only enhance your oral health but also contribute to a happier, healthier overall well-being, along with a confident and radiant smile. Don't hesitate to discuss your personalized treatment plan with your dental professional to achieve the best results.

Studies have shown that patients wearing clear aligners , like the Invisalign system, have improved periodontal health when compared to patients wearing fixed appliances , like metal and ceramic braces. This is due to the nature of both appliances.

When considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth, it's essential to explore the different types of braces available. Clear aligners offer the advantage of being removable, enabling patients to maintain their oral hygiene routine with ease. You can brush, floss, and rinse just as you would without any orthodontic appliances, promoting better periodontal health. In contrast, traditional metal braces and lingual braces, which are fixed appliances, cannot be removed without doctor intervention.

These types of braces are effective in applying constant pressure to shift your teeth into the desired position, but they do create opportunities for debris to get trapped between brackets, wires, and teeth. If not properly managed, this can lead to plaque buildup. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain diligent oral care, especially when wearing traditional metal braces or lingual braces, by investing at least 22 hours a day in proper dental hygiene to ensure the success of your treatment plan.

For many patients at high risk of periodontal disease, clear aligners offer the superior treatment option and should be considered over fixed appliances.

¿Cómo Puedo Prevenir la Enfermedad Periodontal?

Periodontal Disease?

The easiest way to prevent periodontal disease is by routinely and adequately brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Use an electric toothbrush and a water flosser for optimal results.

If you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, especially with a fixed appliance like braces, it would be wise to take extra time to make sure any food residue is not trapped between your bracket and wires.

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