Is Invisalign use possible with gum disease?

Is Invisalign use possible with gum disease?

Invisalign is now one of the most popular ways of correcting teeth that are misaligned. This kind of treatment has a range of benefits and is chosen by people of all ages as a very effective means of achieving a better smile. Is it possible to get Invisalign in Weybridge if a person has gum disease? This is a question asked by many patients who wish to have their teeth straightened yet are concerned about whether they are a suitable candidate due to having the condition.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by plaque and bacteria on the teeth building up over time. This usually occurs because a person is not removing them correctly by regular brushing and flossing. The first stage is known as gingivitis, which is when the gums become irritated and a little more sensitive. The result is usually seeing a little blood when brushing and flossing. 

If the patient seeks help from a dental professional at this early stage, the disease is not able to progress and cause any further damage. However, if gingivitis is not treated, it is considerably more likely to develop into periodontitis. This is a condition that can easily result in the gums becoming infected. When the gums become infected, the bone underneath can then deteriorate. This deterioration can cause a person’s teeth to become loose or even to fall out.

Clear braces and gum disease

If a person’s gum disease has been allowed to progress into periodontitis, then the health of the jawbone is then compromised. The teeth and gums are very vulnerable at this point, which means that having clear braces would be unsafe. This is because the braces, or indeed any other form of orthodontic treatment, could speed up bone loss and make further tooth loss increasingly likely.

Does this mean aligners aren’t allowed?

No, not at all. Getting aligners is still possible, it is simply the case that the gum disease must be treated before beginning the straightening process. Once the dentist has confirmed that the gums are healthy, it is then possible to begin with clear braces. It is important that while the braces are being worn, the patient’s gums are regularly checked to ensure that the gum disease has not returned and that they remain healthy.

Invisalign is a better choice

Invisalign is often a better choice for those who have previously suffered from gum disease.  More traditional braces are composed of metal that is affixed to the teeth and carry a greater risk of having bits of food trapped. This can increase the likelihood of decay and the deterioration of the gums. 

Clear aligners are removed when the patient is having a meal. They should then clean their teeth thoroughly, removing any debris, before replacing the trays. This means it is much easier to keep the teeth and gums clean. The result of this is that they do not accumulate the plaque and bacteria that is a breeding ground for the return of gum disease.