San Francisco residents enjoy the health benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign is an advanced orthodontic system that can straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. Setting the teeth, jaws, and lips into correct alignment creates an attractive smile; however, enhanced aesthetics is just one of the many benefits of Invisalign. Straightening your teeth offers tremendous health benefits as well. Nearly 75 percent of American adults have some degree of misalignment (malocclusion). The effects of misalignment can get worse over time and can affect your overall health. When not corrected, misalignment can result in periodontal (gum) disease, more tooth decay, and abnormal stress on the teeth and jaws.
Studies are presenting a growing body of evidence linking periodontal disease to numerous systemic diseases and medical conditions including heart disease, diabetes, pulmonary disease, fetal development, and strokes, among others. Misaligned teeth can affect oral health because it is difficult to clean the crowded areas effectively. Oral bacteria that are not removed will multiply and lead to periodontal (gum) disease and tooth decay.
The periodontal disease begins as red, inflamed gum tissue, and bleeding when brushing and flossing. Without treatment, the inflammation progresses into a chronic infection, eventually leading to tissue damage, bone loss, and finally, tooth loss. These conditions can result in pain and the need for extensive, expensive, time-consuming dental treatments. Comfortable, discreet, convenient treatment with Invisalign can give you beautifully straight teeth and decrease the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Structural Issues
Some common types of malocclusion include cross bite, open bite, under bite, edge-to-edge bite, spacing, and excessive overjet. When the bite is affected, abnormal pressure can cause excessive wear. Worn teeth are subject to chipping and can develop notches at the gum line. Over time, the abnormal forces cause by misalignment can cause flattened, worn teeth that will develop fractures at the edges, resulting in sensitivity, pain, and an increased risk of cavities or a broken tooth.
The jaw joints (temporomandibular joints – TMJs) and teeth are mutually reinforcing structures. When the bite is affected, the improper forces that the temporomandibular joints and its associated muscles are subjected to can cause jaw pain, facial pain, earaches, headaches, muscle aches, and other discomforts. Invisalign can correct serious structural issues while straightening the teeth.
Dr. Leo Arellano and his skilled team have spent many years helping the people of San Francisco enjoy optimal oral health, straight teeth, and beautiful smiles. Visit our smile gallery to see some of the beautiful, healthy smiles that the doctor has created with Invisalign treatments. Call 415-881-4343 to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
