Almost no one is born with perfect teeth or an ideal bite. This doesn't always present a problem, but for some, improperly aligned teeth can become a more serious issue later in life. An overbite and the less common underbite can cause discomfort over the years by presenting other issues inside the mouth. Chipping and breaking can occur from excessive wear and/or abrasions. While orthodontic treatment was once mostly limited to teenagers, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, about 20% of orthodontic patients are adults,.
Adults in their 30s, 40s, and beyond are seeing the benefits of aligning their teeth. Over the last few decades there has been a decline in missing teeth in older adults, as advances in orthodontics are helping teeth stay healthy and, in turn, allowing patients to live longer, healthier lives. Older adults are increasingly saying no to dentures and yes to the orthodontist's chair.
If you want to improve the look or health of your smile through teeth alignment, don't hesitate to contact South Bay Smiles in Westchester for a consultation.
Problems Associated with Tooth Alignment
There's more to tooth alignment than just a boost in smile confidence. Chewing, biting, and speaking all become easier when teeth are perfectly aligned. Flossing can be more thorough with properly spaced teeth that aren't crowded or gapped. Having straight teeth reduces one's chance of suffering tooth decay and gum disease, both of which are caused by bacteria. Gum disease is also the main cause of tooth loss, mouth sores, and bad breath in adults. Plaque occurs more frequently in crowded teeth, as they are more prone to buildup. Neck pain and migraines can also be caused by unnecessary stress put on the teeth and gums. Further, temporomandibular jaw (TMJ) pain is a serious complication that is associated with crooked teeth and misalignment.
Teeth that are not in proper opposition to one another may start to overlap, a fact which can lead to a thinning of the bone. Digestion also improves with straighter teeth, as fewer bacteria remain in your mouth. Having fewer bacteria in the blood stream may actually reduce one's chance of developing certain diseases.
Invisalign: The Subtle Option for Aligning Teeth
Invisalign is a transparent option for straightening your teeth. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign allows for tooth alignment while enabling easy care and cleaning. Detaching the aligners at night allows for simple brushing and flossing. Further, Invisalign retainers are clear and subtle, a fact which makes them a great choice for adults looking to align their teeth without feeling self-conscious.
Metal braces place severe restrictions on food choices and require regular and mildly painful adjustments. Because of the appearance and the length of treatment involved, most adults don't bother with the hassle of metal braces.
Older adults who have wanted straight teeth for years can pursue this treatment without anyone knowing their secret! Even at 65 years of age, Invisalign can give you a healthier mouth and may reduce your chance of needing restorative work in the future. Invisalign is usually thought of as being purely cosmetic, but in fact, people with straighter teeth have a smaller chance of developing periodontal problems.
To learn more about the benefits of having properly aligned teeth, contact our Los Angeles office by calling (310) 670-0659. During a consultation with Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI, we can discuss whether Invisalign or another treatment is right for your unique dentistry needs.