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Dentistry/gum recession and braces

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Question
I have very healthy teeth, no fillings, but I have some recession.  I am 44 and I am now considering braces for the bite problem and possible to stop the recession from going any further. Will this help, or will I end up eventually with grafting?  Thank you

Answer
HI,
Braces may or may not fix the problem.It all depends on the type of movement from the braces. if the teeth will be moved inward, then the recession may improve. but if the teeth will be pushed out, then the recession will likely worsen. In such cases, we often do the graft before the orthodontics, so that no recession will occur. You should discuss this with your orthodontist, and determine exactly what movements are planned.

Best of Luck,
Joseph Zelig

Dentistry

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Joseph Zelig, DDS, D.ABP www.smileinthecity.com

Expertise

Dr. Zelig is a board-certified Periodontist and an expert on dental implants. Dr. Zelig can answer any and all questions you have about complex dental problems, dental implants, gum disease, treatment of gum recession, and treatment of a "gummy smile".

Experience

Dr. Zelig has personally placed over a thousand implants with excellent success and has worked with many dental specialists and educated them on full mouth reconstruction, esthetic dentistry, and dental implantology.

Organizations
American Dental Associateion, American Academy of Periodontology, American Board of Periodontology, North-Eastern Society of Periodontitis, New York State Dental Association, New York County Dental Society

Education/Credentials
I received both my dental degree (DDS) and my certificate in the specialty of Periodontics from New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Zelig graduated among the top 10% of the graduating class. As a result of outstanding academic achievements, Dr. Z was elected into the membership of Omicron Kappa Upsilon- the national dental honor society. In addition, Dr. Zelig has lectured to general dentists and specialists on periodontal treatment and dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology which recognizes periodontists who have made significant achievements beyond the educational requirements of the specialty. Board-certified periodontists have been examined by a panel of internationally respected peers and has been awarded Diplomate status. By successfully completing this challenge, Dr. Zelig has demonstrated a robust knowledge of periodontics, Continued professional development, Critical review of results of therapy, and interest in providing the best, most up-to-date care.

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