KANATA, ONTARIO- Achieving superb dental health may not be the primary reason patients seek orthodontic treatment but is one major benefit. October is National Orthodontic Health Month in Canada and the United States, and Kanata dentistry practice Trillium Dental is informing patients how orthodontics can improve the health of their smile.

Think of your smile as a net. When teeth are crooked and crowded, food particles easily become trapped. Misaligned teeth that lean in or jut out can also make plaque difficult to spot in the mirror. Because of this, patients in need of orthodontic care often struggle to maintain a clean smile with routine brushing and flossing practices. When teeth are straight and smooth, however, identifying and removing wedged food particles is much easier.

The benefits of orthodontic care don’t end at a simple dental hygiene routine. When the top and bottom rows of teeth are aligned, the bite becomes more natural and comfortable. Teeth that have shifted out of alignment place added strain on the jaw. This can trigger painful consequences, like Bruxism (teeth grinding) and TMJ disorders. Also, patients with a straight smile have a decreased risk of developing gum disease, since there are no gaps that leave tissue susceptible to irritation and gums fits snugly on straight teeth.

At Trillium Dental, patients in need of orthodontic care can achieve a healthy, straight smile with Invisalign. This incredible treatment offers an efficient and discreet aligning experience. A series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners is used to accelerate the straightening process. Every two weeks, the aligner is swapped for a new mold that reflects the desired movement in the teeth. Every patient has a unique smile anatomy that requires personalized attention, but the average duration of treatment is only one year!