Crooked teeth can make good dental hygiene difficult; however, addressing crooked teeth with a teeth-straightening method like Invisalign can prevent tooth decay, gum disease (i.e., periodontal disease), and bad breath. Furthermore, did you know that practicing good dental hygiene now lowers your chances of developing certain diseases later in life? By seeking treatment for crooked teeth, brushing, flossing, and having your biannual cleanings, you can protect your long-term oral health.
Cavity Formation
Cavity formation is more likely in areas of the mouth where patients have crooked teeth due to the difficulties they have trying to floss and brush in these areas. A cavity is an infection caused by bacteria that feed on the starches and sugar that remain on your teeth after you eat or drink. These bacteria produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Bacteria eat away at the enamel over time, causing cavities. When bacteria infiltrate the inside of the tooth, the vessels and nerves become infected, and inflammation occurs as the immune system attempts to eradicate the bacteria. When a cavity appears, seek treatment as soon as possible to protect your long-term oral health.
Gum Disease Development
If treatment is not sought in the early stages of gum disease, deep pockets form, which fill with bacteria as the disease progresses. Inflammation rises, and the gums bleed more easily, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Seeking treatment now may protect your long-term oral health and prevent tooth loss.
The Effects of Poor Hygiene on Your Overall Health
While the bacteria that cause cavities are not airborne in the same way that viruses are, they can easily spread throughout your body. Because researchers have discovered numerous links between chronic conditions and oral disease, practicing good dental hygiene can protect both your long-term oral health and your overall future health. If you have crooked teeth, you may find it difficult to reach certain areas of your mouth, which are prone to decay. Choosing Invisalign to straighten your teeth now can help you avoid future dental issues.
Keeping a Healthy Mouth
Implementing a daily dental health regimen can help to reduce the likelihood of decay by eliminating harmful bacteria.
Here are 8 Tips for Preventing Periodontitis and Protecting Your Long-Term Oral Health:
- Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day. Each session should last 2 minutes, and fluoride-containing toothpaste should be used.
- If you are unable to brush your teeth, chew a sugarless gum containing Xylitol.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months, or when the bristles fray, whichever comes first.
- Floss your teeth once a day at the very least. If you’re brushing and flossing at the same time, floss first. Flossing first loosens any debris between the teeth, allowing the toothbrush to wash it away.
- If you smoke, talk to your doctor about trying one of the available smoking cessation methods.
- Consume a healthy diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits.
- Make it a habit to rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking.
- If you have crooked teeth, schedule an appointment with Clear Smiles to learn more about Invisalign teeth-straightening options.
The Clear Smiles Difference
If you have crooked teeth and want to learn more about Invisalign, call Clear Smiles today to schedule a free initial consultation. With our industry-leading technology, you will experience exceptional patient care, drastically reduced cost, and comprehensive oversight from top-notch Smile Advisors and doctors—safely, conveniently, and effectively. Please contact us right away to set up your free consultation.