Straighter Teeth, Better health

Find a mirror and take a close look at your teeth, do you have some level of crowded teeth, would you say you have a healthy smile?
The mouth is a mirror; it reflects general health or disease.

Periodontal Disease… Pull that Mirror again
Are you noticing gums that are too red or pinkish?

On your last dental visit, If you have been diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease, you’re not alone.

• An estimated 80% of American adults currently have some form of gum disease, ranging from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone support of the teeth.
• Research also points to health effects of perio disease that go beyond your mouth… well beyond if you are not careful.

The Correlation Between Misaligned Teeth and Periodontal Disease

Did you know that a major cause of periodontal disease is poorly-aligned teeth? This is because the bacteria living in the gums around crowded teeth are much more toxic and destructive than the normal bacteria found in healthy mouths! In fact, the misalignment that leads to periodontal disease continuous to remain on of the most overlooked risk factors by General Practitioners office.

Researches has shown that mouth infections and inflammations caused by periodontal disease can play havoc throughout the body. There is proven association between periodontal disease and other chronic inflammatory conditions, such as:

• Diabetes: These patients are more likely to have periodontal disease , because they are more susceptible to contracting infections.¹
• Stroke: People diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were found more likely to have an oral infection when compared to those in the control group.
• Respiratory Infections: Bacteria in your mouth can be aspirated into the lungs to cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, especially in people with gum disease.
• Severe Osteopenia: Osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone supporting teeth may be decreased.
• Pre-term or Low Birth-weight Babies: Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.

Treatment is Key for a straighter teeth and better health
If your teeth are misaligned, it could be more than a s cosmetic issue. Undergoing orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth maybe a critical part of ensuring your overall health.

Orthodontics is a treatment option that allows doctors to straighten teeth using different methods including brackets or clear removable plastic appliances called aligners by Invisalign™ and clinical studies have shown that gingival health may improve with the use of Invisalign™ during orthodontic treatment. Consult your dentist to find out which one is best for you.²

Straighter Teeth are Healthier Teeth
Straight teeth are healthier teeth and can lead to :

• Healthier Gums: properly positioned teeth are easier to brush and floss than teeth that are crowded, crooked, or spaced too far apart. Properly aligned teeth can help gums “fit” tighter around them, which may lead to better periodontal health.³
• Easier Cleanings: With maintenance of good oral hygiene, the chances of having plaque retention, tooth decay, and periodontal disease can be reduced.

Now let’s look at that mirror one more time…If your teeth are misaligned, Orthodontic treatment should be considered to straighten your teeth and help prevent periodontal disease. Straighten your teeth and protect your health. Why not start with a complementary consultation by Dr. Randy Lozada?