While many patients come to our office because they are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth, crooked teeth are more than just a cosmetic dental issue.
Misalignments also greatly affect the health of your teeth. When you have crooked, twisted, or overlapping teeth, it's difficult to brush and floss them properly, which allows bacteria, plaque, and tartar to build up. Over time, this build-up can contribute to cavities and gum disease.
Additionally, dental misalignments affect your bite, or the way your teeth come together. Over time, this leads to excessive wear on certain areas of your teeth, erosion, and fractures. Other problems associated with dental misalignments include chronic clenching and grinding (known as “bruxism”) and temporomandibular joint dysfunctions (TMJ or TMD). These problems in turn lead to pain in your jaw, neck, shoulders, and head. They are also associated with migraines.
Schedule an assessment at our Wausau dental office so we can consider your orthodontic options. Many patients can benefit from Invisalign, a clear, plastic aligner system that doesn’t rely on metal brackets and wires. Because the system is removable, it also allows you to enjoy your favorite foods and keep us with good oral hygiene more easily.
Call our office today to learn more.