Problems Associated With Misaligned Teeth

The fact is that virtually nobody is born with perfect teeth or an ideal bite. However, for most people these are not serious issues (though for some, they may become serious later in life).

A fair number of people have teeth that are misaligned. Overbite is common; less common is "underbite", or "lantern jaw". In some patients, an extra set of teeth start to erupt, pushing existing teeth into an odd position. Occasionally, such misalignment can be the result of an injury. People can also do it to themselves by grinding or clenching their teeth frequently. There are numerous reasons why someone's bite can get out of proper alignment.

The Results of Invisalign

While the results can vary, there is always some measure of pain and discomfort. For one thing, people with cooked teeth have a tendency to bite the inner surfaces of their mouths while chewing more frequently. This is extremely painful; even worse, the area around the bite can swell, making more likely that the person will accidentally injure themselves again in the same place.

Misaligned teeth can also cause premature tooth wear on the surfaces of the teeth as these surfaces grind against each other.

One of the lesser known, but more serious complications associated with misaligned teeth is Temporo-Mandibular Jaw (TMJ) pain. This pain and discomfort not only affects the jaw, but also the neck and even the shoulders, and can cause frequent headaches ranging from mild and occasional to severe and chronic.

Why Not Just Get Braces?

You may or may not have noticed, but very few people wear metal braces anymore. The fact is that when it came to metal braces, the cure was almost as bad as the disease. Not only were these extremely uncomfortable and placed severe restrictions on what you could and could not eat, they required regular adjustments – a mildly painful procedure at best that had to be endured at least once, if not twice a month. In addition, the treatment could last for years.

Metal braces also made it difficult to keep one's teeth clean. Tooth decay was a frequent problem, which may have gone undetected since a dentist is unable to use X-ray equipment where metal is present.

The Invisalign method of orthodontic treatment has made old-fashioned braces virtually obsolete. These retainers require no adjustment – you simply return to your dentist or orthodontist twice a month to get a new retainer as your teeth settle into a proper position. In addition, Invisalign retainers can be removed for eating and cleaning (though these are the only times they should be removed). The best part for many patients however is the fact that results can be seen in as little as 12 months.

Tips for whiter teeth include the following:

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day to prevent the build up of plaque
2. Floss once a day, ideally at night so that your mouth remains clean and hygienic while you sleep
3. Have regular dental check ups twice a year
4. Rinse your mouth thoroughly after every meal to make sure no food is sticking to your teeth
5. Stop or reduce smoking – this is very staining
6. Coffee, tea, cola and wine can stain the teeth.  Cut down if you can, or else rinse your mouth with water afterwards.  Drinks lots of water instead
7. Choose a good toothpaste with baking soda or whitening properties
8. Replace your toothbrush regularly.  Electric toothbrushes clean efficiently – consider a purchase if you don’t already have one
9. Be aware that mouthwash contains alcohol and other chemicals that can stain or discolor teeth
10. Try to eat a healthy diet with lots of raw fruit and veg. Avoid fast food, processed food and snacking

However, for really white teeth,  you may need to consider a professional teeth whitening treatment, which goes further to brighten and whiten your teeth. 

Leading cosmetic dentistry provider The Hospital Group has seen a significant 21% increase in inquiries for teeth whitening each year for its tooth whitening procedure.