Can Teeth Alignment Help Regrow Receding Gums?

Incisors and gums

I saw a video where a dentist mentioned that if the contact points between teeth and the alveolar bone are less than 0.5 centimeters, it can help the gums regenerate.
Is this true? If it is true, does that mean if I get my teeth straightened, not only will my slightly loose front teeth recover from the pressure, but it could also help some areas of gum recession to regenerate?

AJIE, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/11

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

1.
If plaque is well controlled and the teeth are kept clean, the contact points between the teeth are 0.5 cm away from the alveolar bone crest, which allows for the possibility of gum tissue regeneration.
2.
Orthodontic treatment can align crowded teeth, stabilizing the position of the contact points between the teeth, which aids in oral hygiene, and of course, there is also a chance for the gums to regenerate.

Reply Date: 2015/12/11

More Info

The question of whether teeth alignment can help regrow receding gums is a complex one, and it touches on various aspects of dental health, periodontal disease, and orthodontics. The claim that maintaining a distance of less than 0.5 cm between the contact points of teeth and the alveolar bone can aid in gum regeneration is intriguing but requires careful consideration.

First, it is essential to understand the relationship between gum health and tooth alignment. Gum recession, or the loss of gum tissue around the teeth, can occur due to several factors, including periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, genetic predisposition, and tooth misalignment. When teeth are misaligned, they can create areas that are difficult to clean, leading to plaque accumulation and, ultimately, gum disease. Therefore, aligning teeth can indeed improve oral hygiene and reduce the risk of gum disease, which may indirectly support gum health.

However, the idea that simply aligning teeth will lead to the regrowth of receding gums is more nuanced. While orthodontic treatment can help create a more favorable environment for gum health, it does not directly regenerate lost gum tissue. The biological process of gum tissue regeneration is complex and typically requires the presence of healthy periodontal tissues and bone. If the underlying periodontal disease is not addressed, simply aligning the teeth may not be sufficient to promote gum regrowth.

In cases where gum recession is significant, additional treatments may be necessary. These can include periodontal therapy to manage gum disease, surgical procedures such as gum grafting, or the use of regenerative techniques that involve grafting materials or growth factors to encourage tissue regeneration. The success of these treatments often depends on the severity of the recession, the health of the surrounding tissues, and the overall oral hygiene practices of the patient.

Regarding the specific claim about the 0.5 cm distance, while maintaining proper spacing and alignment can help in achieving better oral hygiene, it is not a guaranteed method for regrowing gums. The focus should be on comprehensive periodontal care, which includes regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and possibly periodontal treatments if gum disease is present.

In summary, while aligning teeth can contribute positively to gum health by improving cleaning access and reducing plaque accumulation, it is not a standalone solution for regrowing receding gums. Patients experiencing gum recession should consult with a dental professional who specializes in periodontics to explore appropriate treatment options tailored to their specific condition. This may include orthodontic treatment as part of a broader strategy to restore gum health and prevent further recession.

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