Do you have uneven teeth? Smiles with crooked or overlapping teeth not only lead to issues with our overall appearance, but could have negative impacts on our oral health as well. In today’s blog, your Gary, IN, dentist discusses the benefits of correcting misalignment with orthodontics and preventing oral health problems from developing!
The Health Risks of Misalignment
What health issues may arise as a result of our poor alignment? Well, since people often have trouble thoroughly brushing and flossing uneven teeth, the risk of tooth decay and gum disease often increase. In addition, the pressure on the jaw joints and changes to your bite balance could mean a greater likelihood of TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding), and with them, headaches, jaw pain, and even damaged teeth. Finally, this could lead to embarrassment regarding your smile’s appearance and have negative impacts on your social interactions and confidence levels.
Aligners and Braces
We have a number of different options, including retainers and teeth spacers, but let’s focus on the two more common options for helping kids, teens, and adults enjoy more even and healthy smiles: braces and aligners. With braces, metal brackets will be attached to the front-facing sides of your teeth and connected with a thin arch wire. As the dentist adjusts the tension in the wire, this moves the teeth to more optimal positions. Total treatment time takes about two years. With aligners, impression and images will be taken of your smile and used to create a series of aligners from a clear plastic material. A set is worn daily for 20 to 22 hours, and a new set is used every two weeks. Total treatment time takes about a year to 18 months. Both options correct minor and severe cases of misalignment, and help you enjoy better oral health and a more attractive smile.
Caring for Your Smile During Treatment
During the treatment process, whether you have retainers, braces, aligners, or teeth spacers, you need to continue to care for your teeth by brushing and flossing. You need to brush around your orthodontics twice a day for two minutes, and floss before bed. If you have clear braces, simply remove them prior to cleaning your teeth. This helps protect the smile from cavities, gum disease, teeth stains, and other oral health issues during the treatment process. We will also monitor your smile during periodic visits for treatment and/or checkups and cleanings. If you have any questions, then please contact our team today to learn more.
Healthy Smiles Of Northwest Indiana Corrects Misalignment
At Healthy Smiles of Northwest Indiana, we would love to help you obtain a straighter and healthier smile with braces or aligners. To find out more about our host of orthodontic treatment options, or to schedule your appointment, call Healthy Smiles in Gary, IN, today at 219-938-2637.