Can Clear Aligners Cause Gum Recession?

Learn more about whether clear aligners can cause gum recession from an expert's perspective. Find out how to practice good oral hygiene and enjoy a straighter smile without worrying about your gums.

Can Clear Aligners Cause Gum Recession?

What some Invisalign patients report is known as gum recession. Gum recession occurs when gum tissue sinks and reduces its position in the tooth, creating exposure to the roots of the teeth. In most cases, clear aligners are not likely to be the cause of this condition. Many people have doubts about using clear aligners due to myths that they can cause gum recession.

The good news is that if you practice good oral hygiene, your clear aligners will not contribute to periodontal disease. By using your clear aligners and keeping them clean, you can enjoy a straighter smile without worrying about your gums. Online dental alignment services now allow teeth alignment for a fraction of the cost of braces or Invisalign. While clear aligners are less likely to get food debris trapped in them, you may still think they require less hygienic maintenance than braces.

However, if your dentist sees a recession in your gums during your visit, they'll want to address it before undergoing treatment with a clear aligner. The periodontal ligament tissue will need some time to adapt to the new position of the teeth, so you'll have to use the same transparent alignment tray for a few weeks before replacing it with a new one. Clear aligners or Invisalign are expected to cause mild gum bleeding and swelling within the first few days of use. Treatment with a clear aligner may be delayed if your orthodontist is concerned about the severity of your periodontal condition.

Clear aligner treatment usually requires use during the night, which can provide relief similar to that of bruxism during sleep provided by a nighttime protector. Clear aligners can correct a crooked smile and even out your teeth so you can better access every nook and cranny during cleaning. Because there are many different reasons why a person's gums may retract, clear aligners cannot help in every case. Clear aligners have brought a world of comfort to those who need orthodontic treatment, as they are a more attractive and comfortable alternative than traditional metal braces.

If misalignment, bruising, or crooked teeth are the cause of gum retraction, clear aligners may be an excellent option for you. On the other hand, clear aligners gently push teeth to align, exerting less force and causing less pain than traditional braces.

Brandon Lewis
Brandon Lewis

Passionate About Dentistry and Oral Health. Hardcore beer advocate. Infuriatingly humble tv enthusiast. Subtly charming social media evangelist. Unapologetic thinker. I always smile.