Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common oral health issue that affects the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. If you're considering orthodontic treatment like braces, you might wonder if periodontal disease will prevent you from getting them. The short answer is: it depends. While it's not an automatic disqualifier, having periodontal disease significantly impacts the treatment plan and requires careful consideration.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and supporting bone structures that hold your teeth in place. It progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and potentially advancing to periodontitis (infection that damages the gums and bone). Symptoms can include bleeding gums, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth. Untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Can Braces Exacerbate Periodontal Disease?
Braces themselves don't directly cause periodontal disease, but they can make existing conditions worse. The brackets and wires can make it more difficult to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Food particles can become trapped, and thorough brushing and flossing become more challenging. This increased difficulty in cleaning can lead to plaque buildup and inflammation, potentially worsening existing periodontal disease.
How Periodontal Disease Affects Braces Treatment
The presence of periodontal disease significantly influences the approach to orthodontic treatment:
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Treatment Prioritization: Treating the periodontal disease is usually the priority. Your orthodontist will likely recommend seeing a periodontist (a gum specialist) first. Controlling the infection and improving gum health is crucial before starting braces. Aggressive periodontal treatment might be necessary to stabilize the supporting bone and gums before orthodontic intervention.
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Modified Treatment Plan: The type of braces and the length of treatment might be adjusted based on the severity of the periodontal disease. In some cases, less invasive orthodontic options might be considered.
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Increased Risk of Complications: Individuals with periodontal disease are at a higher risk of complications during orthodontic treatment. These complications could include increased gum inflammation, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
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More Frequent Monitoring: Close monitoring of your gum health is vital during and after orthodontic treatment. Regular check-ups with both your orthodontist and periodontist are crucial to ensure optimal outcomes.
Can I Get Braces if I Have Mild Periodontal Disease?
With mild periodontal disease, getting braces might still be possible. However, meticulous oral hygiene is essential, and you'll likely need more frequent professional cleanings. Your orthodontist and periodontist will work together to create a treatment plan that manages the periodontal disease while achieving the desired orthodontic results.
What if My Periodontal Disease is Severe?
Severe periodontal disease might necessitate extensive treatment before orthodontic intervention can begin. This might involve scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), gum surgery, or even bone grafts to restore the supporting structures. Once the periodontal disease is under control, your orthodontist can assess whether braces are a viable option.
What is the best approach if I want braces and have periodontal disease?
The best approach is a collaborative one. Consult with both an orthodontist and a periodontist. They will assess your specific situation, discuss the potential risks and benefits, and collaboratively develop a personalized treatment plan to address both your orthodontic needs and your periodontal health. This ensures that the orthodontic treatment doesn't negatively impact your gum health, and vice versa.
Remember, proactive management of periodontal disease is crucial for long-term oral health and the success of any orthodontic treatment. Don't hesitate to seek professional advice from qualified dental professionals.
