Crowded, crooked teeth are just unsightly and the best reason for braces, right? Not so fast – there are other reasons to correct that snaggly smile that have nothing to do with vanity.
A crowded smile can make it very difficult to keep your teeth as clean as you would like to. The jam-packed nature of crowded teeth creates areas for plaque to accumulate and turn into tartar. Dentists call tartar “calculus”, a rock hard substance that results when our teeth aren’t cleaned well. This material is a precursor to periodontal disease.
The long term consequences of periodontal disease are well documented. Not only does it cause tooth loss but numerous studies have described its relationship to heart disease, diabetes, low birth weight babies, obstructive sleep apnea and more.
So orthodontics isn’t just about making your teeth nice, straight and beautiful. It is much, much more. It is just as important to align your teeth so that you are able to keep them clean and free of the bacterial toxins that cause the destruction that accompanies periodontal disease.
If you suffer from overlapping or crowded teeth you may able to avoid periodontal disease and metal braces by straightening your smile with Invisalign. The Invisalign system uses clear, plastic trays that fit over your teeth and allow your teeth to move gradually. Unlike traditional braces Invisalign is removable for eating and cleaning your teeth.
If you should have any questions regarding periodontal disease and orthodontics, please do not hesitate to give our office a call at (480) 834-6991 to schedule your initial general health dentistry consultation. We will arrange an appointment that works best for your schedule. Dr. LeSueur and Dr. Dodaro will take the time to answer your questions and concerns and help you to obtain your goals of a healthy mouth and beautiful smile. Dr. LeSueur and Dr. Dodaro serve the Phoenix, Arizona area and combine LVI training and state-of-the-art technology to bring you, and your family, the very best and healthiest general dentistry.