It’s important to have balance in our lives. For example, too much work, too much food, too little activity, too little sleep — any of these can take a toll on our health and well-being.
Balance is especially important in our body’s ability to function properly. For example, walking on legs that are the same length allows us to move at a comfortable gait. This also helps to prevent strain on the spine as well as the knee and hip joints.
There is a need for proper balance with the alignment of your teeth, too. Although you may not realize it, teeth that don’t ‘meet’ together properly can lead to a number of problems that extend far beyond your smile.
When people think of straightening teeth, it’s most often in pursuit of a more beautiful smile. Certainly, straight teeth create a more flattering smile and enhance one’s overall facial appearance. Having an attractive smile inspires people to smile more often while projecting 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.
What may seem to be minor alignment problems can go much deeper than what is merely esthetic, however. Misaligned teeth can lead to greater challenges. An improper bite can result in:
• Worn, cracked or chipped teeth
• Frequent headaches, migraines and sore jaw joints
• Ear ringing
• Feeling off-balance and dizzy at times
• Clenching and/or grinding teeth during sleep
• Pain in facial, neck and shoulder muscles
Without a correct bite, the jaw joints can become stressed. This can lead to TMJ Disorder, which can cause headaches, migraines, sore jaw joints, ear ringing and pain in facial, neck and shoulder muscles.
When bite misalignment is minor, it may be resolved through the gentle reshaping of selected teeth. In some situations, crowns may be recommended to adjust the height of certain teeth. More severe bite problems may require orthodontics to move teeth into proper position.
Certain smile enhancements do not require moving teeth. Through porcelain veneers or crowns, we can create a smile of straight, beautiful teeth. As a neuromuscular dentist, Dr. Barbat incorporates measures into treatment to create proper alignment for a healthy bite.
However, when it comes to a smile, some people prefer the natural way by having their teeth straightened.
In our office, Orthodontic specialist Dr. Jessica Delgado can make recommendations to restore proper bite alignment while enhancing your smile’s appearance. In addition to traditional braces, Dr. Barbat and Dr. Delgado are certified in Invisalign (for teens & adults).
Invisalign and Invisalign Teen offers an alternative to braces. This system uses clear molds to move teeth gradually into proper positions. The molds are also removable for eating and brushing. There are no uncomfortable wires or brackets and are virtually undetectable in a smile. Through Invisalign, adults, especially, like avoid the awkward appearance of traditional braces.
While straight teeth create a more attractive smile, problems associated with bite misalignment may mean a bad problem will become worse. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, call 586-739-2155 for a free consultation.
During this time, please ask about easy payment plans that allow you to achieve the smile you desire while making affordable, monthly payments. We’ll be happy to have our Financial Coordinator meet with you to explain the many options.
