Individuals with gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, are generally not considered ideal candidates for braces.
Understanding Braces Candidacy
Successful orthodontic treatment, such as braces, relies heavily on a healthy foundation: your teeth, gums, and supporting bone structure. When these foundational elements are compromised, moving teeth can become problematic or even detrimental to oral health.
The Role of Gum Disease in Braces Candidacy
One of the primary conditions that can make someone an unsuitable candidate for braces is gum disease. This oral health issue directly impacts the tissues essential for supporting tooth movement.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when the tissue that supports your teeth becomes infected. Often, this infection is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums and eventually affecting the bone that holds teeth in place. For more detailed information on gum disease, you can refer to resources like the American Dental Association's guide on Periodontal Disease.
Why Gum Disease Affects Braces Candidacy
When the supporting tissues of your teeth are already infected or compromised by gum disease, initiating orthodontic forces can exacerbate the problem. Here's why:
- Compromised Support: Braces work by applying constant pressure to gradually move teeth into new positions. This process requires healthy bone and gum tissue to support the movement and re-anchoring of teeth. If these tissues are diseased, they cannot adequately support the teeth or withstand the forces of orthodontic treatment.
- Increased Risk of Damage: Moving teeth in the presence of active gum disease can worsen the infection, potentially leading to increased bone loss, gum recession, tooth mobility, or even tooth loss.
- Treatment Complications: The presence of braces can make oral hygiene more challenging, potentially worsening existing gum disease if not meticulously managed.
For these reasons, dental professionals typically recommend that any underlying gum disease be treated and brought under control before considering orthodontic procedures.
Below is a summary of the key condition impacting braces candidacy mentioned:
| Condition | Impact on Braces Candidacy |
|---|---|
| Gum Disease | Individuals with infected supporting tissue are generally not ideal candidates, as treatment could worsen their oral health. |
