If you have a smile marred by crooked or crowded teeth, then you understand how misalignment can impact your appearance. However, did you know that an uneven smile can also hurt your health, too? At Calcagno Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we offer two orthodontic solutions for uneven teeth that don’t rely on metal braces.
The Health Risks of Misalignment
When you lose even a single tooth the body takes notice. Soon, the flow of nutrients to the jawbone is suspended. Without these key doses of calcium and phosphorous, the jawbone deteriorates over time. The result is further tooth loss and an older appearance. In addition, uneven teeth make thorough brushing and flossing difficult. As food remains trapped between teeth the risk of tooth decay and gum disease elevates. Finally, misalignment places strain on the jaw joints, increasing the risk of the uncomfortable symptoms related to TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching).
Clear Aligner Systems
One of the more popular options for correcting misalignment involves Clear Aligner Systems. While traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to reposition teeth over a year-and-a-half to two years, Clear Aligner Systems does the same with clear aligners in as little as a year. Patients receive a custom-made set of aligner trays that they wear every day for between 20 and 22 hours. You upgrade to a new set about once every two weeks as your minor alignment issues are corrected.
Six Month Smiles
Another option involves less noticeable orthodontics. Patients will wear clear brackets and tooth-colored arch wires, which correct minor alignment problems in three to six months. We recommend this for patients over the age of 15. As with Clear Aligner Systems, we will need to examine your smile beforehand to see if this is the best option for you. We actually offer free cosmetic consultations for new patients.
ABOUT YOUR ROCHESTER, MN COSMETIC DENTISTS:
Calcagno Cosmetic and Family Dentistry offer expert services including teeth whitening, Six Month Smiles, Clear Aligner Systems, root canals, and pediatric dentistry. To schedule a consultation, please call (507) 218-8936. Dr. Gilly Calcagno and Dr. Kara Heimer welcome and serve patients from Rochester, Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, Austin, and the surrounding communities.
