Every October, oral health professionals, including The Dental Bar’s very own Aurora Invisalign® dentists, observe Orthodontic Health Month. October serves as a moment to focus on improving oral health through orthodontic treatment, like Invisalign. Aside from improving aesthetics, addressing alignment issues head-on can prevent significant problems, including:
TMJ Disorder
Dental misalignment is a common issue that can lead to a wide range of problems, including the development of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull, causing pain and discomfort in the surrounding area. When teeth are not in the correct position, it can lead to an uneven distribution of pressure on the joint, causing it to become strained and inflamed. This can result in clicking or popping sounds when chewing, difficulty opening the mouth wide, and pain while speaking. If left untreated, TMJ disorder can lead to chronic pain and can limit the ability to function normally in day-to-day activities. It is, therefore, essential to address dental misalignment promptly to prevent the onset of TMJ disorder.
Tooth Decay
Did you know that misalignment causes cavities? It’s surprising, right? When your teeth are crooked, it becomes much more challenging to clean them effectively and remove plaque. This makes it easier for bacteria to thrive and attack tooth enamel. And that’s not all! When your teeth are crowded or overlapping, it creates little nooks and crannies where food particles can get trapped, leading to even more bacteria buildup. By taking care of your orthodontic issues through proper cleaning, you can help prevent cavities from developing.
Periodontal Disease
Another concern among teeth that are hard to clean is an increased risk of periodontal (gum) disease. When teeth aren’t aligned correctly, deep gum pockets form. These deep, dark, and wet gum pockets are an ideal place for bacteria to thrive, accumulate plaque, and harden into stubborn tartar. Unfortunately, gum disease actually worsens with time without professional help. Therefore, stay on top of your gum health by prioritizing orthodontic treatment, like Invisalign.
Tooth Loss
Did you know that tooth decay, gum disease, and orthodontic misalignment can all contribute to tooth loss? While advanced gum disease and tooth decay lead to tooth loss, misalignment can directly impact the strength of our teeth differently.
When our teeth don’t line up correctly, some teeth bear too much pressure while others aren’t getting enough. This uneven pressure can gradually make the misaligned teeth loose and eventually fall out. Not only that, but the surrounding teeth may also shift as they try to “fill the gap,” setting off a chain reaction that can lead to even more misalignment and tooth loss. Thus,
Start Orthodontic Treatment with Our Aurora Invisalign Dentists
it’s crucial to keep an eye out for dental misalignment and address it early on to prevent further complications, such as TMJ disorder, cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Maintaining proper alignment plays an important role in caring for our teeth, gums, and joints for life, and Invisalign can help you achieve proper alignment.
Are you considering Invisalign in Aurora, CO? If so, The Dental Bar is here for you. Visit our Aurora dental office to experience dentistry with a modern twist. Call 303-963-9552 or message The Dental Bar to book an Invisalign consultation.
