When you want to straighten your smile without the burden of traditional metal braces, Invisalign® offers a more comfortable and discreet alternative. Utilizing a series of custom clear aligners, this orthodontic treatment gently guides teeth back into the proper position to eliminate crowding, spacing, and alignment issues. While this treatment offers unique benefits, it can cause a few temporary side effects with your gum health. To help you protect your oral health, here are a few common gum care issues to discuss with a dentist before getting Invisalign.

How Will My Gum Health Change During Invisalign Treatment? 

Gum Irritation

To maintain a secure hold over the teeth, aligners extend over the gums. In some cases, the friction between the aligner and the gum tissue can increase sensitivity and irritation. For example, you might notice that your gums are tender and swollen.

Often, this issue will fade as you get used to wearing your Invisalign trays. However, if the problem persists or causes serious irritation, talk to an orthodontist about how you can smooth out the edges of aligners to make them more comfortable.

Gingivitis

When you wear aligners, it becomes easier for bacteria-filled plaque to stick on and between teeth. The trays trap this plaque and make it harder for saliva to cleanse and neutralize the bacteria. As a result, it is easier for bacteria to infect the gum tissue and cause gingivitis.

To prevent gingivitis, practice a strict oral hygiene routine. By brushing twice a day and flossing daily, you can remove plaque before putting on your aligners. Keeping your aligners clean will also minimize the risk of infection.

Gum Recession

Depending on treatment needs, Invisalign may shift teeth in a way that forces gum tissue to recede. While this problem is rare, it’s something to monitor during your treatment. When left untreated, gum recession can cause your smile to appear uneven and expose sensitive portions of your teeth.

There are ways your dentist can help with gum recession. In many cases, surrounding gum tissue can be strategically cut and stretched to restore the affected area. If the recession is severe, your provider may need to graft healthy tissue into the area.

Getting a straighter smile is a stress-free experience when you’re a patient of Lamont B. Jacobs Orthodontics, DDS. Treating patients of all ages, this Fairfield, OH, orthodontist can introduce you to the best treatment options available today—including Invisalign. Dedicated to personalized care, this clinic will work with you every step of the way to ensure your treatment is working properly and providing you with maximum comfort. For more details on these services, visit this provider online. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 829-7045.