Why Straight Teeth Are Good For Your Health

With the recent introduction of Invisalign in my practice I've noticed that most people don't realize the impact straight or crooked teeth have on their oral health. Your mouth will profit hygienically as well as cosmetically from straight teeth. Straightening your teeth can also help problems like jaw pain and TMJ. If you are on the fence about invisible braces to straighten your teeth, consider these factors: 

Gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammation of the gums coupled with an infection that destroys the tissue that supports your teeth. Untreated, gum disease can cause bone loss, systemic problems, receding gums, and eventually even tooth loss. People with gum disease usually have symptoms that include terrible breath, gums that bleed even with gentle brushing and flossing, and gums that are swollen.
Gum disease is no joke, patients with a history of gum disease require more frequent and thorough dental cleanings, three to four times a year, for the rest of their life. To try to reverse the gum disease they also require antibiotic treatments that are placed in their gums by their dentist. This is very expensive, extensive, and very preventable. So how does this relate to straight teeth? Teeth that are not aligned properly are more susceptible to gum disease. If your teeth are crowded, very spaced out, or if you have a cross bite, then you have a potential risk of periodontal disease and tooth and bone loss. This is because it is easier for food to get stuck and plaque to form, causing your gums to harbor harmful bacteria. 

Worn Teeth

Premature wear and worn down teeth. 
When you have:
- an open bite (where your back teeth come together but there is a space between the front teeth) 
- a deep bite (if your upper front teeth hide the lower teeth) 
- or an edge-to-edge bite 
you are potentially at risk for premature wear on your teeth. These types of bites can make a mouth that is otherwise healthy deteriorate over time. This can cause flat teeth that have been worn down, TMJ problems, sore jaw muscles, and even chipped or fractured teeth. Worn down teeth may eventually require extensive dental work to restore them. TMJ may require appliances to relieve the jaw pain. 
Properly aligned teeth can be less stressful on the supporting teeth and bone jaw joints. 


Still considering straightening your teeth? Visit Family Dental Care Center's website for FAQs and more information on Invisalign invisible braces at www.drsethrosen.com. 

A Family Dental Care Center: Dr. Seth Rosen

2030 West Main Street

Norristown, PA 19403

610.631.3400