It’s often easy to ignore small imperfections.
If you have one or two teeth that are just slightly crooked, you may think that it’s not worth seeing an orthodontist. After all, orthodontists can be expensive, and that tiny misalignment seems merely cosmetic.
But that’s not actually true.
You see, even the slightest imperfection can cause a host of problems in your mouth. Here’s what a big effect these small issues can have.
Increased Bacteria
When your teeth are out of alignment, they’re harder to clean. Crooked teeth create unusual gaps and crevices that standard toothbrushes aren’t designed to be able to reach.
Even small imperfections can have a bit impact on your ability to clean your teeth, and you may have difficulty flossing as well.
Why is this a problem? Well, when you can’t clean and floss effectively you can’t effectively remove bacteria.
This might not seem catastrophic, but the more bacteria you have the more likely you are to have serious dental problems. Like gum disease, excess plaque and cavities.
Bad Breath
Here’s the bad news. Bacteria is the most likely cause of bad breath.
When it’s harder to clean your teeth, food and bacteria often build up. This can lead to foul odours on your breath, even after you have just brushed.
When you have straight teeth, they’re easier to clean and you’re less likely to have bad breath.
Gum Disease
If your teeth aren’t properly aligned, your gums won’t fit around them as snugly as they should. This creates gaps, where bacteria can multiply.
Over time, that bacteria can eat into your gums, causing gingivitis and other gum diseases.
Gum disease doesn’t sound all that bad but it’s a leading cause of tooth loss, and it causes inflammation. Research shows that gum disease is also linked to diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease.
‘Old’ Teeth
With incorrect alignment, your top and bottom rows of teeth don’t fit together properly. This often leads to uneven wear and tear on the surfaces of your teeth.
The enamel on your teeth can be worn down unequally and age your teeth prematurely. Unusual tooth patterns can also cause you to chew your food inefficiently, leading to even more damage.
Get Straightened Out Today!
The good news is that it’s never too late to have your teeth straightened. Faye Dunaway even had braces at 61!
Even better, advancements in orthodontic technology mean that you are no longer restricted to traditional braces. Clear aligners enable you to get the straight teeth you have always dreamed of without having to spend years with a mouth full of metal.
So make 2018 the year you go straight! ?
Here at Gullotta Orthodontics, we offer a variety of solutions to help straighten your teeth. We even offer your first consultation free, so we can help you review your options and choose the most appropriate method to meet your needs.
Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.
