Dr. King Answers: Can Orthodontic Treatment Help Prevent Periodontal Disease?

Q:  My dentist told me that I am developing periodontal disease around my crooked and crowded teeth. Can straightening my teeth help me avoid the negative effects of periodontal disease?

Orthodontic treatment can help patients avoid
the unhealthy, unsightly effects of periodontal
disease -- AKA periodontitis or pyorrhea. 

A:  Periodontal disease is the inflammation of tissues that surround the teeth. The supporting bone and gums can become severely damaged or lost from periodontal disease.  Negative consequences -- such as gum recession, tooth mobility and impossible-to-clean areas -- often result.

Straightening crooked teeth can often improve the odds of preventing periodontal disease.  Ultimately, diligent oral hygiene will be the most effective preventive means, Straight teeth are much easier to keep clean, which is the main benefit of orthodontics when periodontitis -- AKA pyorrhea -- is a concern.

Thanks for another great question! Keep smiling, and see you soon.

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SOURCE: Wikimedia [image], Wikipedia