Can Invisalign Cause Gum Recession?

Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS

Reading time: three minutes.

Invisalign offers a popular alternative to braces, giving patients a way to straighten their teeth without metal wires or brackets. But while the aligners are discreet and removable, they still place pressure on the teeth and that raises a common concern: can they cause gum recession?

The possibility exists, but it is not unique to Invisalign. Any orthodontic treatment has the potential to affect the gums. The good news? With proper care and routine dental visits, gum recession is often avoidable.

In this blog, you’ll learn what gum recession is, how Invisalign can impact gum health, who is most at risk, and most importantly, how to avoid gum recession with Invisalign.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

While Invisalign is a safe and effective way to straighten teeth, gum recession can occur especially if oral hygiene is poor or underlying gum issues are present. Fortunately, recession is often preventable, and if it does occur, treatment options are available after orthodontic care is complete.

What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, exposing more of the tooth roots. This can make your teeth look longer, increase tooth sensitivity, and raise the risk of tooth decay, plaque accumulation, and periodontal disease.

Common signs of gum recession include:

  • Tooth sensitivity: Especially when eating or drinking hot, cold foods, or sweet items.
  • Visible roots: Teeth may appear longer as the root surface becomes exposed.
  • Notched areas: Indentations along the gumline and signs of recession.
  • Bleeding gums: Especially when brushing or flossing, which may signal gum disease.

How Invisalign Can Contribute to Gum Recession

Invisalign itself doesn’t directly damage your gums, but certain factors related to orthodontic care may lead to gum recession in some patients.

  • Excessive pressure on teeth: Each Invisalign tray shifts your teeth slightly. If the movement of teeth is too fast or involves unnecessary pressure, it can stress the bone and gum tissue.
  • Plaque buildup under aligners: Trapped food particles and plaque accumulation under trays can inflame gums and cause oral health issues.
  • Improper fit or tracking: If your aligners aren’t fitting well or your teeth aren’t moving as planned, uneven pressure may affect gum health.
  • Gum disease prior to treatment: Starting Invisalign with active gum disease or existing gum issues increases your risk of gum recession and tooth loss.

Patients transitioning from traditional metal braces or dealing with misaligned teeth or crowded teeth may be more sensitive to these changes, especially if oral care is inconsistent.

Who Is at Risk for Gum Recession During Invisalign?

You are more likely to experience gum recession during orthodontic treatment if:

  • You have thin or delicate gum tissue or soft tissue loss
  • You already struggle with gum disease, signs of gum recession, or pockets between teeth
  • You wear aligners but do not have a good oral hygiene routine 
  • You use a hard-bristled toothbrush or practice aggressive brushing instead of gentle brushing techniques
  • You skip regular check-ups or neglect professional dental hygiene care
  • Your orthodontic treatment plan isn’t tailored to your specific needs

How to Avoid Gum Recession With Invisalign

The good news is that gum recession is not inevitable. Here’s how to reduce your risk and keep your gums healthy:

  • Brush and floss diligently twice a day
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Use antimicrobial rinses (if recommended by your dentist/orthodontist)
  • Clean your aligners daily
  • Attend regular check-ups and cleanings
  • Report anything that doesn’t seem right including pain or loose teeth
  • Stick to your personalized treatment plan

Treatment for Gum Recession After Invisalign

Gum recession is typically addressed after orthodontic treatment is complete. If your dentist or orthodontist notices gum tissue loss following Invisalign, they may refer you to a periodontist for specialized care.

At Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Dental Implants, we treat gum recession with proven, minimally invasive techniques that restore tissue, protect exposed roots, and help maintain long-term oral health.

Treatment options may include:

  • Gum grafting: Replaces lost gum tissue and covers exposed root surfaces to reduce sensitivity and protect the teeth.
  • Laser therapy: May be used to reduce inflammation and promote healing, either on its own or alongside other procedures.

If you have completed Invisalign and are dealing with gum recession, our team can evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective treatment for your needs.

Learn more about Gum Grafting and Gum Surgery. 

Schedule an Appointment Today!

If you are considering Invisalign or noticing changes in your gums while wearing aligners, book a consultation with our experienced periodontists in Colorado. 

Visit Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Dental Implants at:

Highlands Ranch Office
To book an appointment at our periodontal clinic in Highlands Ranch, CO, call (303) 683-1144 or visit us at 9090 S Ridgeline Blvd. #225, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129.

Sloan’s Lake Office
To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Sloan’s Lake, call (303) 683-1144 or visit us at 525 North Raleigh Street Suite 130 Denver, CO 80204.

Let our expert team at Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Dental Implants help keep your gums healthy, at every stage of your Invisalign journey.

Categories: Periodontics