Did you know that straightening your teeth can not only improve your appearance, but also lead to better oral and overall health? Dr. Ricardo Hernandez of Pacific Beach Smile Studio is the local authority on teeth straightening treatment invisalign and its myriad benefits. Here, the San Diego doctor explains why straight teeth are important not only for looks, but also for health.
Smile Aesthetics: Appearance is a powerful motivator for people seeking teeth straightening treatment. Straight, properly spaced teeth are universally considered to be attractive and appealing. They are an essential part of a beautiful smile. For many people, straightening their teeth causes an enormous increase in self-confidence. With greater confidence, new social and professional opportunities start to present themselves in everyday life.
Oral Hygiene: Crooked teeth are very problematic to oral health (and, as you will soon find out, overall health). They are difficult to keep clean. Food particles can get lodged in the nooks and crannies and cause plaque buildup and cavities. Straight, evenly spaced teeth are easier to brush and floss and have fewer hard-to-reach spots. Properly cleaned, straight teeth are less likely to develop cavities.
Gum Health: Straight teeth are also good for gum health. Crowded or gapped teeth can cause red, swollen gums and other symptoms of gum disease. Proper tooth alignment helps the gums wrap around the teeth better, reducing the risk of them becoming inflamed or developing gum disease.
Proper Bite: Straight teeth are essential to a proper bite. If the teeth don’t fit together properly when they bite down, they tend to grind or gnash against each other to find a comfortable resting position. Grinding the teeth can lead to premature wear and tear, chips, fractures and pain or other problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Chewing and Digestion: Crooked teeth can also compromise chewing function and lead to digestion problems such as acid reflux and gastrointestinal disorders. Straight, aligned teeth support a proper bite and reduce the risk of chronic grinding and the associated problems. They also allow for better chewing function.
Connection between Oral and Overall Health: Experts believe there is a connection between oral health and overall health. For example, the inflammation from gum disease has been linked to serious, life-threatening conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Therefore, it is important to be conscientious about your oral health — not just for the benefit of your teeth but also for your entire body.
The Invisible Way to Straighten Teeth
When appropriate for the patient, Dr. Hernandez recommends the Invisalign system to straighten teeth. Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that gradually shift the teeth into the proper position and alignment. Patients love Invisalign because they can straighten teeth comfortably and discreetly, without a mouth full of metal wires and brackets.
To learn more about Invisalign, please contact Pacific Beach Smile Studio and request a consultation with Dr. Hernandez. You can reach our practice by calling 858-272-6047 today.