Millions of people across the U.S. deal with some type of dental misalignment. Because of the many problems that can result from crooked teeth, dentists and orthodontists wish to raise awareness of how important it is to take action to straighten your teeth. That is why National Align Your Teeth Day was established in 2021. This annual observance is fast approaching! What can you do to show your support? This blog post offers some suggestions.
Visit Your Dentist
If you are not sure whether your teeth need to be straightened, have a chat with your dentist. After a thorough exam, they can let you know if you have any significant bite problems, rotated teeth, crooked teeth, or other forms of dental misalignment. They will help you understand the potential consequences of not addressing such issues.
For example, some individuals who forgo orthodontic treatment end up with persistent jaw pain, self-esteem issues, an increased risk of gum disease and cavities, and other problems. On the other hand, if your misalignment is very minor, it might not be a threat to your oral health. Knowing how the placement of your teeth might affect your wellness can equip you to make a well-informed decision about your next steps.
Explore Your Treatment Options
Traditional metal braces will always be an excellent way to straighten teeth, particularly in complex or severe cases of misalignment. However, you might hesitate to get them because you do not want a mouth full of brackets and wires. If that is true of you, ask your dentist if you are a candidate for Invisalign.
Invisalign uses clear, custom-made plastic aligners to apply gentle pressure to the teeth and gradually shift them into their proper positions. They feature a subtle appearance, and they can allow you to eat all of your favorite foods. The average treatment time is just 12 months, so if you start Invisalign this August, you might be finished with it by the next time National Align Your Teeth Day rolls around.
Examine Your Habits
If you have already straightened your teeth, you can still get into the spirit of National Align Your Teeth Day. Are you doing all you can to maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment? For example, do you use your retainer as often as you should? Are you visiting your dentist for a checkup every six months? If you see room for improvement in your habits, you should take prompt action.
National Align Your Teeth Day might seem like an obscure holiday, but its message is an important one. A straight smile can benefit your oral and overall wellness!
Meet the Practice
Wellesley Dental Group proudly provides both traditional braces and Invisalign in our welcoming, modern office. If you believe you could benefit from orthodontic care, we are ready to consult with you. Contact our talented team at 781-691-4914.