Are you insecure about your smile because of dental misalignment? Insecurity for any reason limits a person in every area of their life. While improving self-confidence is a major aspect of orthodontics, so is improving oral health. People with crooked or crowded teeth are especially prone to cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.

Dental professionals are especially concerned about their patients’ oral health. Thankfully, orthodontic solutions like Invisalign® are designed to correct alignment issues and prevent problems like cavities and gum disease.

Issues Related to Dental Misalignment

Crooked and crowded teeth are much more difficult to clean than perfectly aligned teeth. Food particles and disease-causing bacteria gather between the teeth and along the gum line. When those areas aren’t thoroughly cleaned, that’s when the issues begin.

Because brushing may not remove food particles from teeth that are abnormally close together, bad breath is a common problem. Bad breath is also a sign that the person’s oral hygiene routine needs something more. Along with brushing every morning and evening, flossing should be done every evening. Rinsing with a mouthwash is also important for people with crooked and crowded teeth.

Cavities are another issue related to alignment. Cavities form when plaque builds up and eats away at dental enamel. Cavities are most common on the molars, but people with alignment issues often develop cavities on their incisors, canines, and premolars because plaque can stick to these teeth just as easily.

Gum disease occurs when plaque gathers along the gum line and turns into tartar. Bad bacteria feed on the tartar and begin to eat away at the gum tissue. Crowded and crooked teeth, again, make cleaning the gum line difficult because the teeth overlap one another. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can become a chronic issue if left untreated.

How Invisalign Can Help

Want to boost your confidence and improve your oral health? Invisalign offers both of those benefits! Most patients who are considering orthodontics are hesitant because they believe traditional metal braces are their only option.

Invisalign gives patients the opportunity to address their alignment issues without enduring months of treatment with bulky metal braces that may contribute to low self-esteem.

Invisalign clear aligners address almost every instance of dental misalignment. The aligners are made of a patented SmartTrack® material that is comfortable and strong. For most patients, this treatment lasts no longer than 18 months. During that time, they receive several aligners that slowly shift the teeth into their proper positions.

One of the best things about clear aligners is that they are nearly invisible, which is what most orthodontic patients want—especially adults and teens. The inconspicuous, removable braces make the treatment process much more convenient. Patients feel confident and attractive even with braces on their teeth! Additionally, the aligners can be removed while eating, so there are no brackets or wires for food to get caught on.

Patients who choose Invisalign aligners must be fully committed to the process. This means wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours a day, cleaning them properly and regularly, and keeping up with them when they aren’t being worn.

Improve Your Oral Health with Invisalign

Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is possible with Invisalign clear aligners. Dr. Abbey J. Lee at Smiles for Grant Park is committed to helping her patients gain optimal oral health and feel good about their teeth. Contact our friendly dental team today at (404) 328-7177 to schedule an initial consultation.