Invisalign for Adults To Prevent Periodontal Disease

Invisalign® is an innovative system for straightening teeththat has tremendous benefits for adults. The Invisalign® system is almost invisible, so no one will notice it. It is comfortable to wear and is removable for brushing and flossing or when desired to eat any foods or chew gum.

Invisalign® gently guides teeth back into the proper position. The result is a beautiful smile when teeth align properly. Having teeth properly positioned is important to help prevent periodontal disease.

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) affects many adult Americans. Periodontal disease starts with a simple inflammation of the gums, which then may advance to a serious condition, destroying the soft tissues and bone that support teeth and ultimately causing the teeth to fall out when left untreated. Periodontal disease is more likely to occur in adults from the age of thirty years or older.

BACTERIA, PLAQUE, AND TARTAR

The same thing that causes tooth decay is responsible for periodontal disease. The culprit is bacteria that goes unchecked, grows into a substance called plaque that forms on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky substance that develops on the surface of the teeth, which provides the perfect breeding ground for the growth of bacteria. Brushing regularly and flossing between teeth and under the gums is important to remove plaque because, after a few days, plaque hardens to a substance called tartar. Regular brushing and flossing does not remove tartar. A professional cleaning is necessary at the dentist in order to remove tartar.

GINGIVITIS AND PERIODONTITIS

When plaque and tartar stay on the teeth, the gums get inflamed with a disease called gingivitis. The symptoms are redness, swelling of the gums, and having gums that bleed easily. Left untreated, gingivitis turns into periodontitis. Periodontitis is a much more serious infection. Areas below the gum line become infected and this continues towards the jawbone. In addition, poor dental health from gingivitis or periodontitis affects other parts of the body and is a contributing factor to general ill health when the infection spreads.

INVISALIGN® HELPS PREVENT PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Improper alignment of teeth makes it difficult to floss between teeth correctly. Tooth contact creates areas where plaque and tartar accumulate. Straightening teeth with the Invisalign® system alleviates this problem.

For more information about Invisalign® and dental hygiene, contact Great Lakes Dental Arts for a consultation.