Gingivitis (the early stage of gum disease or periodontal disease) is a surprisingly common dental issue. In fact, around one in three people have gum disease. And it can impact those of different ages.
It’s no shock that, since gum disease is so common, one question that patients frequently ask is, “Can I get Invisalign if I have gingivitis?” While everyone is unique, and the answer will depend on your own specific circumstances, Invisalign could indeed be a more favorable choice than traditional braces, particularly for those battling early gum disease.
Gingivitis Basics
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It is characterized by inflammation and redness of the gums, often accompanied by bleeding while brushing or flossing. This condition occurs when plaque, a sticky film made up of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and gum line, leading to irritation.
The most common cause of gum disease is inadequate brushing and flossing habits. While gingivitis can be distressing, it’s also reversible with good oral hygiene. The key here is catching it early and taking action right away, which can prevent it from progressing to more severe forms of periodontal disease.
Braces vs. Invisalign
When it comes to straightening your teeth, braces and Invisalign are the most common options. While both are effective, the choice becomes more nuanced for those with gum disease.
Traditional braces, with their bands, brackets, and wires, create tiny spaces where plaque can hide, making optimal oral hygiene more challenging. This can exacerbate gingivitis.
In contrast, Invisalign aligners are clear, removable devices customized to fit snugly over your teeth. Because they are removable, it’s easier to maintain proper oral hygiene, keeping plaque at bay and lessening the risk of escalating gum disease. In addition, Invisalign moves teeth in a slow and gentle way, which is ideal if gum sensitivity exists.
If you have more severe gum disease, however, you will have to get treatment to help resolve it before considering Invisalign (or any tooth-straightening treatments, for that matter).
How Aligning Your Teeth Can Improve Gum Health
There is a strong link between straight teeth and healthy gums. When teeth are overly crowded or, conversely, spaced too far apart, it can lead to swollen, red gums – a telltale sign of gum disease. Invisalign is expertly designed to gradually move your teeth into proper alignment and can potentially help resolve these issues.
Straight teeth are simply easier to clean, allowing you to reach all surfaces effectively during brushing and flossing. As a result, there is less opportunity for plaque to build up between and around the teeth and gums, thus decreasing the chance of gingivitis development or progression.
What’s more, a well-aligned bite means more even pressure distribution when you chew, reducing stress on the gums and supporting structures. Over time, this benefit of straighter teeth can lead to improved overall gum health.
The Next Steps for Healthy Gums and Straighter Teeth
When dealing with gingivitis, it is essential that you take an active role as early as possible. Luckily, when gum disease is found early on, it is certainly treatable and orthodontic treatment may still be an option. And not only can you get Invisalign if you have gingivitis, but it might actually help improve your oral health. If you are considering ways to straighten misaligned teeth, you may want to consider Invisalign as a possible path.
If you are ready to take the next step towards healthier gums and a straighter smile? Talk to us about whether Invisalign may be right for you. We are here to guide, support, and work with you to attain your best smile yet!