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Having crooked teeth can make practicing good dental hygiene a problem; however, addressing crooked teeth with a teeth-straightening method like Invisalign can prevent tooth decay, gum disease (i.e., periodontal disease) and bad breath. Furthermore, did you know that by practicing good dental hygiene now you are reducing your chances of developing certain diseases in the future? You can protect your long-term oral health by seeking treatment for crooked teeth, brushing, flossing and having your biannual cleanings.

Protect Your Long-Term Oral Health by Seeking Treatment Early On

Due to the difficulties patients experience attempting to floss and brush in the areas of their mouths where they have crooked teeth, cavity formation in these areas is likely.

Cavity Formation

A cavity is the infection that results from the bacteria that feasts on the starches and sugar remaining on the teeth after you eat or drink. These bacteria release acids that damage the enamel of the tooth.As time passes, the bacteria eat away at the enamel, creating cavities. Once the bacteria reach the inside of the tooth, the vessels and nerves become infected, as the immune system attempts to eradicate the bacteria, inflammation results. Once a cavity develops, protect your long-term oral health by seeking treatment right away.

The Development of Gum Disease

If treatment is not sought in the early stages of gum disease, as the disease progresses, deep pockets form, which fill with bacteria. Inflammation increases and the gums bleed more easily, providing a path for the bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Seeking treatment at this point could protect your long-term oral health and prevent tooth loss.

How Poor Dental Hygiene Affects Your Overall Health

While the bacteria that are responsible for creating cavities are not airborne like a virus, the bacteria can easily spread throughout your body. Since researchers have found numerous connections between chronic conditions and oral disease, by practicing good dental hygiene you can protect your long-term oral health as well as your overall future health.If you have crooked teeth, you may be experiencing difficulty reaching certain areas of your mouth: These areas are prone to decay. Choosing to straighten your teeth with Invisalign now can prevent future dental problems.

Maintaining a Healthy Mouth

Reducing the likelihood of decay by eliminating harmful bacteria can be accomplished through the implementation of a daily dental health regimen.8 Tips to help prevent periodontal disease and protect your long-term oral health:

1. Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Each session should last for 2 minutes and be sure to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
2. If you are unable to brush, chew a sugarless gum that contains Xylitol.
3. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or when the bristles begin to fray, whichever comes first.
4. Floss your teeth at least once a day. If you are brushing and flossing at the same time, be sure to floss first. By flossing first, you loosen any debris that is between the teeth so the toothbrush can wash it away.
5. If you smoke, speak with your physician about trying one of the smoking cessation methods that are available.
6. Eat a healthy diet that is full of fresh vegetables and fruits.
7. Make a habit of rinsing your mouth with water after you eat or drink.
8. If you have crooked teeth, consider making an appointment at Docbraces to learn more about the teeth-straightening options available.

The Docbraces Difference

If you have crooked teeth and would like to learn more about Invisalign, contact Docbraces and schedule your free initial consultation today. At Docbraces, we also offer complimentary second opinions; therefore, if you have previously been told that Invisalign will not solve your dental issues, as Premium Invisalign Providers, we may be able to help. Due to their experience with Invisalign, our orthodontists frequently solve dental issues that other orthodontists cannot.At Docbraces, we do our best to keep dental care affordable. In addition, we offer family discounts, patient incentive programs, no-interest payment plans, flexible appointment times and T-Link online patient portals. Furthermore, each of our state-of-the-art facilities is designed with our patients in mind. We are dedicated to providing each patient with the high quality, individualized care that they deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.