Do you have crooked or crowded teeth? If so, you may understand how uneven teeth can impact your overall appearance. However, did you know that misalignment can also hurt the health of your smile? If you’ve ever wondered, “Why do we need orthodontic treatment?” Then today’s blog may be especially informative.
The Health Risks of Misalignment
How does misalignment impact your smile? First, uneven teeth can make thorough brushing and flossing difficult, allowing food to remain trapped between teeth. Bacteria can break down the food particles, boosting oral acidity and increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, lack of proper alignment can place pressure on the jaw joints, leading to strain, which can cause TMJ disorder or even bruxism (the persistent grinding of teeth or clenching of the jaw). As you can see, poor alignment can lead to a number of problems beyond appearance.
How Do Braces Work?
With braces, metal brackets are placed onto the front of the teeth. They are connected with an arch wire. Over time, the tension of the arch wires will be adjusted to reposition the teeth. The entire treatment takes between a year-and-a-half to two years, depending on the severity of your misalignment. There are a variety of orthodontic treatments, including braces, retainers, clear aligners, and other options for improving the alignment of your smile.
Correcting Misalignment with Veneers
If you have only very minor alignment issues we may be able to mask them with porcelain veneers. Made from thin shells of porcelain, veneers are adhered to the surface of the teeth. They mask a number of cosmetic issues, including discoloration and misshapen/damaged teeth. If you have any questions about correcting your smile, whether via braces or veneers, then please contact our office today.
ABOUT YOUR RICHARDSON, TX GENERAL DENTIST:
Dallas TX dentist, Dr. Diep Truong, DDS offers a comfortable dental care employing the latest in cutting-edge dental technology. We strive to make sure our patients in Dallas and Richardson have access to innovative preventive, cosmetic, and restorative procedures. To schedule an appointment, call Viva Dental Family Dentistry at (214) 337-7800 (Dallas) or (972) 437-6000 (Richardson).
