At one time or another, we’ve all grabbed a grocery cart that had one wheel that dragged or wobbled. Pushing it can be so difficult that we often cede and find another cart that moves smoothly.
When your teeth are out of alignment, you may not notice anything at first. Yet, misaligned teeth don’t correct themselves. As the alignment worsens, a number of issues can result.
Bite misalignment is when the upper teeth and lower teeth don’t fit together harmoniously. Although genetics can be to blame for bite problems, other reasons can lead to development of an overbite or open bite, crooked teeth and crowding.
As a Neuro-Muscular Dentist, I’ve seen how minor alignment problems can become severe since the underlying cause isn’t always initially obvious. Research has shown that an improper bite can lead to a long list of problems, including:
Minor bite misalignment may be resolved in several ways. For example, gentle reshaping of some tooth ‘points’ may re-balance the bite. Or, crowns may be recommended in order to better adjust the height of certain teeth. More severe bite problems may require orthodontics to straighten teeth, of which brings a number of advantages.
Straight teeth create a more flattering smile. And, a beautiful smile tends to enhance one’s overall facial appearance. Having an attractive smile typically causes people to smile more while creating a look and feel of self-confidence.
Straight teeth are also easier to keep clean. Crooked or crowded teeth tend to create angles that are difficult for a tooth brush to reach. When oral bacteria accumulates, the result can be cavities or gum disease.
For teeth that are crowded or crooked, the most natural way to a beautiful smile is by straightening teeth. In our office, Dr. Jerry Wesley, an Orthodontic specialist, can make recommendations to restore proper bite alignment while enhancing your smile’s appearance.
In addition to traditional braces, Invisalign (for teens & adults) offers an alternative to braces that uses clear molds to move teeth. These are removable for eating and brushing and, in some cases, move teeth at a pace faster than traditional braces.
Ignoring the symptoms of bite misalignment allows a bad problem to become worse. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, call toll free 1-866-9-Smiles for a free consultation. During this time, we will explain methods to properly diagnose bite misalignment and, if it does exist, correct bite problems in an appropriate way.
