When you have crowded teeth, this could have multiple impacts on the beauty of your smile. But you could also be at risk for gum disease without treatment! In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, family dentist looks at the risks associated with crowded teeth, and how we can help straighten your smile with Invisalign® aligners.
The Causes of Misalignment
Dental misalignment often forms due to complications with the growth of the jaw and the eruption of the teeth, or possibly due to thumb sucking or tongue thrusting in childhood. If baby teeth are lost prematurely or fail to fall out on time, this could also alter how permanent teeth erupt and lead to poor alignment. While the factors vary, the result is negative changes to your smile’s appearance. You could also be at risk of serious oral health concerns!
Crowded Teeth and Gum Disease
Crowded teeth are often difficult to thoroughly brush and floss, and particles from the foods and drinks we consume could become trapped and hard to remove, which allows bacteria to consume them and create plaque and tartar buildup. The buildup then irritates and inflames the gums, leading to a greater risk of gingivitis and gum disease. Without treatment, gum disease can continue to grow in severity until you risk the loss of your teeth! Which is why care is crucial for protecting the health and stability of your smile if you have dental crowding.
Flossing
Flossing is vital for protecting your smile. Even if this is difficult, you should floss thoroughly every evening before you brush for a second time. Flossing up and down each side of every tooth, and dipping below the gum line, removes trapped particles and prevents them from becoming fuel for harmful oral bacteria, so you’re less likely to develop serious buildup, lowering your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Invisalign®
Our team can provide a cosmetic approach to correcting your dental crowding. With Invisalign®, a series of clear aligners are created for your smile based on the detailed digital images and x-rays we take. A set is worn for 20 to 22 hours a day for a period of two weeks. You then wear the next set in the series, continuing the process. These are clear in appearance, and they fit comfortably too. Each set gently moves your teeth closer and closer to their optimal positions, correcting crowding in as little as a year to 18 months.
Your Dallas, TX, Dentist Can Correct Crowded Teeth
Don’t live with an uneven smile, we can help with clear and cozy plastic aligners. For more information on treating your uneven smile, then please schedule a consultation by calling the Viva Dental Family Dentistry office nearest you at (214) 337-7800 (Dallas) or (972) 437-6000 (Richardson).
