Can You Get Braces with Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection that affects the gums and bones supporting your teeth. It's a common concern, and many people wonder if it prevents them from getting braces. The short answer is: it depends. While it's not an automatic disqualifier, having periodontal disease significantly complicates the process and requires careful consideration and management.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup, leading to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, the destruction of the bone and tissues supporting the teeth. This can result in tooth loss. Different stages of periodontal disease exist, ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. The severity of the disease directly impacts the feasibility of orthodontic treatment.
Can Braces Worsen Periodontal Disease?
Braces themselves don't directly cause periodontal disease, but they can make existing conditions worse if not properly managed. The brackets and wires of braces can make it more difficult to clean teeth effectively, potentially leading to increased plaque buildup and exacerbating gum inflammation. This is why meticulous oral hygiene is paramount for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment, especially those with periodontal disease.
How Does Periodontal Disease Affect Braces Treatment?
The presence of periodontal disease necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This typically involves:
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Treatment of the periodontal disease: Before orthodontic treatment can begin, the periodontal disease must be brought under control. This might involve professional cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotic therapy, or surgery to address bone loss and gum recession. The goal is to stabilize the gum tissue and prevent further damage.
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Improved Oral Hygiene: Maintaining impeccable oral hygiene is crucial during and after orthodontic treatment. This includes regular brushing, flossing (with floss threaders which are particularly helpful with braces), and the use of therapeutic mouthwashes as recommended by your dentist and orthodontist.
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Regular Monitoring: Frequent checkups with both the periodontist and orthodontist are essential to monitor the health of your gums and the progress of orthodontic treatment. Any signs of worsening periodontal disease will need to be addressed promptly.
What Happens if You Proceed with Braces Without Treating Periodontal Disease?
Ignoring periodontal disease while undergoing orthodontic treatment can lead to several negative consequences:
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Increased risk of tooth loss: The inflammation and bone loss associated with periodontal disease can be worsened by braces, potentially leading to tooth loss.
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Treatment failure: Orthodontic treatment may fail to achieve the desired results if the underlying periodontal disease is not addressed.
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Increased discomfort and pain: Periodontal disease can cause significant pain and discomfort, which can be compounded by the pressure of braces.
Can I Get Braces If I Have Mild Periodontal Disease?
In cases of mild periodontal disease (gingivitis), it may be possible to proceed with braces after thorough professional cleaning and with a strong commitment to excellent oral hygiene. However, close monitoring is crucial.
What are the Alternatives if Braces Are Not Feasible?
If periodontal disease is too severe to permit braces, alternative solutions might be considered, depending on the individual case and goals. These could include:
- Extractions: Removing severely compromised teeth.
- Partial orthodontics: Focusing treatment on areas where periodontal health allows.
- Implants: Replacing missing teeth with implants after periodontal disease is addressed.
In conclusion, getting braces with periodontal disease is possible, but it requires careful planning and a collaborative approach between a periodontist and an orthodontist. Addressing the periodontal disease first and maintaining impeccable oral hygiene are essential for successful treatment and preventing further complications. Consult with your dentist or periodontist to determine the best course of action based on your individual circumstances.
