Orthodontic treatment can be a great way to improve the look and function of your smile. However, it is important to have a healthy mouth before beginning any orthodontic treatment. Gum disease does not necessarily mean that you cannot receive orthodontic treatment, but it must be treated and controlled before starting. Braces can be a great way to correct misaligned or overcrowded teeth, but gum disease can make orthodontic treatment ineffective.
In some cases, when the supporting structures of the teeth are compromised, orthodontic appliances can cause more harm than good. Orthodontic appliances move your teeth by putting pressure on them, so your teeth and gums must be strong enough to withstand this extra pressure. Healthy gum tissue should be hard and supple. If the gums are inflamed or weakened by gum disease, they are not suitable for orthodontic treatment.
Likewise, if your teeth are fragile, brittle, or very sensitive, they may not be able to handle the pressure needed to move your teeth over time.
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