What do dental braces do besides straightening teeth?

[loveyy 101]

I think they just straighten

[ChristLover]

Braces straighten your teeth, but what else do they do?
Do they help reduce teeth grinding?
Do they help stop gum recession?
Do they help make the gums healthier?
What else can they do besides just straightening?

[karynwlters77]

Braces help guide your teeth into a more anatomically correct, and asthetically pleasing position. That is why when you have braces your orthodontist/dentist will require you to come in to have them tightened.

They can help with gum recession around facially or lingually verted teeth, teeth that are pushed out to the front or back. These areas usually have recession around the tooth because they are in an incorrect position. Moving the tooth to the correct position can correct gum recession. But in general, they are not a treatment for gum recession.

The best way to make your gums more healthy is to brush properly at least twice per day, and flossing properly everyday. A good mouth rinse like Crest Pro Health can also help. Ask your dental hygiene the proper way to brush and floss.