Teeth, gums and other treatmentsQuestion after the braces come off

Can my gums recede after a fixed retainer is fitted?

Answered byDr Ivelina Ivanova-Koycheva, Orthodontist (MSc)Master's degrees in orthodontics in Rome and in aligner treatment in Turin, international lecturerPublished on 12 November 2026

There are many different reasons why the gums pull back from the surface of the teeth, and they are studied by the speciality of periodontology. A fixed retainer makes it harder to keep your teeth perfectly clean and can lead to more frequent tartar build-up and gum inflammation. Over time, these factors contribute to gum recession.

This answer is for general information. Your own case needs an examination by an orthodontist.