Malocclusion is a technical term that describes crooked teeth, and is the reason why many patients undergo orthodontic treatment. If one or more of your teeth aren’t aligned perfectly, than you may already realized the effect that misaligned teeth can have on the appearance of your smile. However, image isn’t all that crooked teeth affect. Century City orthodontist, Dr. Alpan, warns that the orientation of your teeth also influences how well your mouth works and how effective your hygiene routine is.
Trouble Chewing?
On average, an adult human bite can generate up to 200 pounds on the back molars. Though the pressure is less intense towards the front of your bite, it is still significant. Symmetrical teeth are arranged to displace the impact and minimize the pressure they absorb. When teeth are crooked, your jaw’s joints and muscles have to work harder to keep the mouth straight. The imbalance can place an excessive burden on your teeth and jaws, and the strain can lead to dental damage or distressed jaw joints (TMJ disorder). Straightening crooked teeth with orthodontic treatment can restore your bite’s balance, allowing for proper pressure displacement so your mouth can open, close, and clamp down without difficulty.
More Challenging Hygiene
Brushing and flossing your teeth seems simple enough, but the routine is less effective when crooked teeth obscure the contours of your smile. Odd crevices and jagged edges can conceal plaque where you may not see it, and where your toothbrush and floss can’t reach it. When plaque lingers, the oral bacteria that it contains can release substances that destroy tooth enamel and damage gum tissue, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Aside from improving your mouth’s function, correcting malocclusion can also increase your chances of preventing destructive dental diseases.
Clean AND Straight Teeth
If orthodontic braces are necessary, Dr. Alpan can provide special tools (such as an interdental cleaner) to help you keep your teeth and braces clean during treatment. For many patients, Dr. Alpan may also recommend Invisalign clear braces, which consist of clear aligners instead of brackets and wires. Invisalign’s aligners can be removed before brushing and flossing to facilitate easier, more effective hygiene.
About Dr. Alpan:
With offices in Los Angeles and Century City, Alpan Orthodontics has proudly served patients and their families from all surrounding communities since 1999. To schedule your orthodontic consultation, contact our Los Angeles office at 213-513-7559 to find the location nearest to you.