In addition to being embarrassing, crooked teeth can also threaten your oral health. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean properly which put them at a higher risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease, as well as fractures and broken teeth.
Patients looking to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth often ask whether invisible braces, commercially called Invisalign, are effective, especially as adults. Dr. Jacob Grapevine is a Plano, TX dentist offering treatment options for patients needing mild to moderate orthodontics to address a range of cosmetic or dental health concerns. Learn more about which option might be right for you.
Benefits of Straightening Teeth
Crooked teeth are more than a cosmetic concern. While misaligned teeth may make your smile less than perfect, you may also be at a higher risk of certain oral health problems. Straightening teeth has several key benefits:
- Reduce your risk of gum disease. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean, allowing oral bacteria to build up in places you can’t reach with a toothbrush or floss. This can lead to bleeding gums, and if left untreated, can progress to serious gum disease.
- Ensure teeth wear evenly. Our teeth are designed to fit in the mouth in a specific way, ensuring that they wear evenly. Crooked or misaligned teeth can cause uneven wear or even tooth fractures.
- Improve your overall health. By reducing your risk of gum disease and ensuring teeth wear evenly, you can improve your overall health. The problems associated with misaligned teeth can pose real threats to your overall health, as gum disease is linked to cardiovascular disease, psoriasis, and widespread infection.
Invisalign vs. Metal Braces
Both metal braces and Invisalign are effective ways to gradually straighten crooked teeth. With metal braces, the metal components are attached to the teeth and are visible when you smile. Invisalign invisible braces are discreet and are designed to be removed for eating and your oral hygiene routine.
Your dentist or orthodontist must adjust metal braces, but the Invisalign system contains a series of clear aligners that you swap out based on your treatment plan as your treatment progresses. Many patients find that Invisalign is more comfortable while still correcting minor misalignments and crooked teeth just like metal braces.
Plano, TX Invisalign Provider
Dr. Grapevine offers Invisalign to patients looking for a discreet, comfortable way to straighten their crooked teeth. All patients are unique, and many of them are good candidates for Invisalign. Schedule your consultation online today or call our Plano, TX office at (972) 268-6480.