The Health Benefits of Orthodontic Options

While we all know that crooked teeth can negatively impact your appearance and social life, did you also know that they commonly produce cases of periodontal disease, as well? It's true—when your gums don't fit firmly around the teeth, bacteria can multiply and lead to potential tooth loss if not treated promptly. Here at Provo Dental in Provo, UT, Dr. Gary B. Wiest believes that a straighter smile can make all the difference for putting a positive spin on the personal and professional lives of patients. If you've been teetering with the idea of orthodontics, read on to learn more about the health benefits and schedule a consultation to discuss them further.

Types of Orthodontics

At our Provo office, Dr. Wiest provides orthodontic options that fix a wide range of mild, moderate, and severe alignment issues, including excessive gaps, crowding, overbites, underbites, and cross-bites. The types that we may recommend include:

Invisalign Aligners - a series of clear, removable, plastic trays that shift your teeth into their correct position.
Metal Braces - brackets, elastic bands, and arch-wires combine to put pressure on the teeth and move them into place.
Ceramic Braces - similar to metal braces, but the brackets are tooth-colored for a discreet appearance.
Lingual Braces - also virtually invisible, these custom wires and brackets are applied to the interior side of the teeth.

The Health Benefits of Orthodontics

Having a mouth that is free of periodontal disease and tooth decay makes it easy to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place and can lead to sore, tender, and bleeding gums when left untreated. Conversely, straight teeth close gaps so that bacteria can't enter. This prevents bad breath, protects teeth from damage, and promotes overall health by reducing your risk for oral-systemic diseases.

Interested in Orthodontic Work? Give Us a Call

If you are considering orthodontics, Dr. Gary B. Wiest offers a wide selection of treatment options to meet the unique needs of every patient. For more information about orthodontics and other services provided, visit our website. To schedule an appointment at our Provo, UT, dental office, please call 801-374-8205.