Braces are Not Just For Kids!

The Benefits of Straight Teeth

By Dennis Lucas, D.M.D. –

July was Dental Hygiene month, and in my last article I tried to address as much as possible on such an important subject. Dental hygiene can impact so many different parts of our overall health. Of course, I hit on all the basics: flossing, brushing and regular dental exams, but had limited opportunity to dig deeper into the benefits of straight teeth.

In addressing the subject further, I would like to start by saying that Orthodontics (braces) are not just for kids!

Straight Talk about Crooked Teeth
Crooked, crowded, and poorly spaced teeth are more of a health concern than you think. Most people think of braces as an aesthetic option, but this is not the only reason dentists recommend braces for patients with malaligned (crooked, crowded, poorly spaced)) teeth and poor occlusion (the way you bite together). Malocclusion affects 74% of American adults. If you have malocclusion it may affect your periodontal health, because it is difficult to remove plaque when teeth are not properly aligned. Periodontal disease can begin as gum redness or bleeding while brushing or using dental floss. If not treated, gum inflammation can become worse, leading to soft tissue damage, receding gums, the formation of pockets between teeth and gums, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.

Think of it this way, anyone who has ever done any type of cleaning knows that smooth surfaces are easy to wipe clean, while bumpy surfaces with lots of places for gunk to get caught are much harder to clean. Teeth are the same way. Straight teeth are much easier to clean and floss than crowded or twisted teeth; which in turn allows you to properly remove bacteria carrying plaque.

Wear and Trauma
Poorly aligned teeth can also create unnatural stress and pressure on teeth and jaws. Teeth that are subject to excessive pressure can develop chipping and notches at the gum line called abfractions. Premature wear can lead to poor root support, loose teeth and eventually, tooth loss.

The Potential Health Risk
If left untreated, malocclusion can lead to periodontal disease and premature wear of teeth that can worsen over time and even result in tooth loss. Severe periodontal infection, if untreated, may increase the risk for atherosclerosis-induced conditions such as coronary heart disease and stroke, complications of diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and respiratory diseases.

Straight Teeth are Healthier Teeth
Straight, properly aligned teeth can help you avoid the negative effects of periodontal disease, and promote many positive effects, such as:

• Healthier Gums
• Improved Hygiene
• Decreased Risk of Abnormal Wear & Trauma
• A confident Smile

The Straightforward Solution
Straightening your teeth can make a significant difference to having a healthy mouth and keeping your teeth for life. Invisalign makes it easy to straighten your teeth without bands, brackets, or wires. This innovative technology helps you to straighten your teeth with virtually invisible appliances. Invisalign is a clear alternative and a clear solution so you can smile both during and after treatment. In fact, almost no one will know you’re wearing it unless you tell!

By using a series of clear, removable aligners, Invisalign straightens your teeth right before your eyes. Change the aligners about every two weeks, and your teeth will move – little by little – toward the smile you’ve always wanted. Invisalign is comfortable to wear and easy to live with. Because the aligners are removable, you can continue to eat your favorite foods. And you can brush and floss normally to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Complimentary Consultation
Contact our office to schedule your complimentary Invisalign consultation and find out how Invisalign can help you. Call us at 239-262-5851 or visit us online at www.drdennislucas.com.