Patients who consult with me at
Orthodontics on Silverlake (OSL) about their smile are motivated to make
changes so that their teeth are straighter and their smile is more esthetic and
appealing. They can point to the pictures we take at the consult and tell me
what they want to change about their smile. It's an exciting time because
orthodontic treatment is in most cases a very predictable process that yields
excellent esthetic results for our OSL patients.
Malocclusion also known as a "Bad Bite"
affects about 75% of American adults. Malocclusion can include an excessive
overbite, protruded front teeth, crowded teeth, and other conditions. When your
teeth are not well-aligned they are harder to clean and this can increase your
risk for periodontal or gum disease.
There is strong epidemiological
evidence that periodontal disease provides an increased future risk for
cardiovascular disease, and there is also a moderate link associating
periodontal disease with diabetes. (1,2)
One study (3) found orthodontic
treatment normalized the
bite forces on the
newly-straightened teeth and resulting recovery of the gum tissues, even a year
after orthodontic treatment was completed. Another study (4) found that
overlapping of incisor teeth is directly related to gingivitis
(which can lead to periodontal disease) and this relationship cannot be
explained simply by an effect on oral hygiene.
So, straight teeth are healthier
teeth.
Invisalign® Treatment can be used to
address most patients’ malocclusions and esthetic concerns. The patient
pictured below finished her orthodontic treatment in 18 months:
Call us at
Orthodontics on Silverlake (302-672-7776) to discuss your healthier smile!
References:
1.
Periodontitis : A future risk of acute coronary syndrome? A follow-up study over 3 years.
Rehnvert S. Ohlsson O., et al., J. of Periodontology (7/2010)
2.
Perio.org: New Reports confirm perio-systemic connection and outline clinical
recommendations (AAP)
3.
Eismann, D.,
Prusas R. Eur J Orthod. 1990 Aug;12(3):281-3. Periodontal findings before and
after orthodontic therapy in cases of incisor cross-bite.
4.
Eur J Orthod. 1998
Feb;20(1):65-72.
The relationship between irregularity of the
incisor teeth, plaque, and gingivitis: a study in a group of schoolchildren
aged 11-14 years.
