Not Just a Confidence Buster: Problems Caused by Crooked Teeth

Crooked Teeth

Crooked TeethCrooked teeth may seem like a small problem because it only affects the way a person smiles. Dig a little deeper and you will discover that leaving your misaligned teeth as they are can lead to all sorts of oral health problems.

The following takes a look at some of the more important considerations related to crooked teeth:

Periodontal Disease

Misaligned teeth make it difficult to clean and floss, as there is a tendency for the teeth to push each other out of place. The hard to reach places in your mouth often do not get the cleaning they need for protection against bacteria and germs. These expose you to a higher likelihood of developing severe gum disease.

Periodontitis is a dangerous ailment to leave alone, as it severely damages the gums and erodes tooth enamel. An infection that penetrates a tooth deteriorates it to a point that it eventually falls off. Periodontal disease exposes your teeth to germs or bacteria that may enter the bloodstream and infect you with a potentially deadly ailment.

The bacteria that periodontal disease brings attach to fatty acids that form blood clots and create a build-up on your arteries. Studies have shown that persons suffering from this dental problem are twice as likely to get coronary artery disease compared to someone who does not have the ailment.

Dentists provide you with consultation and treatment, to diagnose and cure periodontal disease.

Potential Bone Loss

Misaligned teeth may also lead to bone loss; once you lose bone density in your jaw, a tooth will lose the support it needs to remain in place.

Crooked teeth expose you to potential loss of bone in your jaw because of the germs and bacteria that enter the places you do not clean properly. Once an infection occurs, your teeth will slowly lose enamel and your gums will recede.

These are the two biggest dental health problems you will face if you let your crooked teeth remain untreated. Bone loss and periodontal disease are avoidable. See your dentist as soon as symptoms of a tooth problem arise for prompt diagnosis and treatment.