Question:
Do braces cause gum recession?
Answer:
A recent study concluded they do not. However, there are other factors to consider. If a tooth is impacted (stuck in the bone under the gums) or severely out of position, it is difficult to predict how the bone will respond to tooth movement. By far, the main cause of gum recession with braces is from patients brushing too hard underneath bottom braces or above upper braces. My staff and I teach patients to clean around braces using a circular motion. Most patients use the improper back and forth motion with a hand toothbrush, so I recommend using an electric one. These toothbrushes are rotary and significantly reduce a patient’s risk to gum recession.