Did you know that misaligned teeth can create problems for your smile that go beyond just your appearance? Misaligned, crooked teeth can increase your risk of developing problems like bad breath, chronic headaches, tooth decay, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and surface damage to your teeth. Straightening your misaligned teeth can help improve your appearance and confidence, but it can also help improve your oral health.
Bad Breath
Bad breath can be caused by bacteria lingering in your mouth. Crooked teeth can cause your teeth to push together and overlap, which can create uneven nooks and crannies. These nooks and crannies can become places that bacteria hides and thrives. Crooked teeth are difficult to navigate with a tooth brush and floss, so this bacteria can continue to hide in the nooks and crannies long after you have finished with your oral care routine.
Headaches
Malocclusion, the misalignment of your teeth, can lead to an uneven overworking of your teeth and jaw. Overworking and tension can lead to chronic headaches. If you find yourself with chronic headaches, ask your dentist or orthodontist if it could be caused by the alignment of your teeth.
Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
The same harmful bacteria that can lead to bad breath can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Crooked teeth are hard to clean, which leads to a buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar.
TMJ Disorder
Excessive wear on your jaw and the its hinge joint, the temporomandibular joint, caused by misalignment can lead to TMJ disorder. Symptoms of TMJ disorder can include pain in the face, neck, and shoulders, along with jaw popping and painful lock jaw
Tooth Damage
Misalignment can cause unnatural friction between teeth. This friction can cause the teeth to get tiny fractures leaving the teeth susceptible to future breakage. Teeth can protrude into one another, which can leave them in danger of breaking during biting or chewing.
Are your misaligned teeth causing problems?
Orthodontic treatment can decrease the risk of developing problems associated with misaligned teeth. We serve adults, teens, and children from White Settlement, North Fort Worth, Springtown, Rome, Haslet, Azle, Saginaw, and surrounding Texas communities. To schedule a consultation, call our Ft. Worth, TX, office today at (817) 236-7846.
