What is the link between the amount of bone and gums to undergo a braces treatment?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am concerned about the tooth roots exposed after undergoing the placement of a gum graft and would like to know the answers to the following questions regarding braces treatment.

What is the amount of bone needed to be suitable for braces?
What are the treatment options other than surgery if braces are not an option?
Why is six months needed after placement of gum graft before one can get braces?
How long does it take to get periodontal disease under control?
Is bone loss always linked with gum recession or can there be gum recession without bone loss is that possible?
Is there typically a better outlook and potentially less time to get the recession under control if the gum recession has occurred for a reason other than periodontal disease?

Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to Icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I have answered the questions.

There is no objective measure of how much bone is needed. But usually above 50% of normal is still suggested for orthodontic treatment.
It also depends on whether it is generalized or localized, horizontal or angular bone loss. The amount and type of tooth movement require general oral hygiene.
A waiting period of six to twelve months is preferable to allow maximum benefits from gum surgery, allowing the bone to properly remodel and thus make it stronger.
At least two to three months of observation of oral hygiene is needed.
Gum recession does not occur without bone loss. Bone levels determine the gum levels.
Any kind of gum disease requires some time for healing and observation. In some patients, esthetic concerns such as black gums and gingival depigmentation may also be discussed during periodontal evaluation, especially when planning long-term gum and orthodontic treatment.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.