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top orthodontists Dayton Ohio

47% of American adults have some form of gum disease (also known as periodontal disease). That's practically half the population!

And while you might know the importance of preventing and paying attention to gum disease from your dentist, I bet you didn't know about the tricky relationship between this disease and orthodontics.

Can you get braces or Invisalign if you have gum disease?

On one hand, people with moderate to severe gum disease should avoid braces since the braces make oral hygiene more difficult.

But on the other hand, orthodontic treatment can help prevent the development of gum disease in the first place!

How can this be, you ask? I'm glad you asked, so let's dive in…

[Looking for help deciding between braces and Invisalign? Read "Invisalign vs Braces" here]

Periodontal disease is an infection that begins in the gum tissue and can progress to deteriorate the bone that surrounds and supports the teeth.

It is often caused by a combination of poor oral hygiene and a high population of specific bacteria.

In its early stages, known as gingivitis, it manifests as red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, a more severe form of periodontal disease, which can impact the supporting bone of the jaws, leading to loose teeth and, at its most severe, tooth loss.

How can orthodontic treatment help to prevent periodontal disease?

When teeth are crowded and not aligned, proper hygiene becomes much more difficult. 

In addition, the roots of the teeth are closer together in crowded dentition, leaving minimal or no space for bone to surround each individual tooth, which lends itself to loose teeth.

Combined with poor oral hygiene and increased bacteria, this results in severe periodontitis with bone deterioration and a high potential for tooth loss.

At O'Brien Orthodontics as a top ortho in Dayton, we are committed to providing treatments that not only enhance the esthetics of your smile, but also contribute to your overall oral health and longevity of your teeth.

If you're worried about anything when it comes to your teeth, jaw, bite, or smile, we're here to help. Come visit us in Englewood or Beavercreek!