How Crowded Teeth Affect Health

How Crowded Teeth Affect Health

By Mina Levi, DDS 07/23/2015

When a person thinks about getting braces, Invisalign clear aligners, or any other kind of orthodontic treatment, their main focus or reasoning is for cosmetic reasons: they want pretty, straight teeth. However, there are many more clinical reasons that orthodontic treatment like Invisalign is recommended that impacts a person’s health. In this week’s article, San Francisco dentist Mina Levi, DDS discusses how crowded teeth affect your health.

1. Calculus buildup. When your teeth are crowded, it causes very tight and unusual contacts between the teeth, making it difficult for floss and toothbrush bristles to reach all of the surfaces of the teeth to clean the bacteria and plaque that accumulates on the teeth. Because of this, those places are usually missed and so plaque and bacteria collect there and turn into hard calculus build up that cannot be removed by home care alone.

2. Gum disease. With more bacteria collecting in these tight places, the bacteria travel into the periodontal pockets, which are the pockets between the gums and the teeth. When bacteria and plaque accumulate in these places, the attachments weaken and the gum separates from the tooth, creating a deeper pocket in which the bacteria travels and causes a cycle of bacteria and disease. Periodontal/gum disease is irreversible, and can only be treated by a professional dental hygienist, the dentist, and a rigorous home care routine.

3. Tooth decay. When calculus builds up on the teeth, the bacteria sit there and eat away at the dental enamel. Once the enamel is penetrated, the bacteria eats away at the tooth structure causing a cavity or dental decay. Once the enamel is penetrated to a certain level, the decay can only be repaired with a filling. If the decay travels to the nerve of the tooth, the person may need a root canal.

4. Misalignment of bite/jaw issues. If the teeth are crowded, the top teeth may not fit correctly over the bottom teeth and they may have a mismatch on the bite. This misalignment can cause TMJ or jaw pain or issues like clicking, popping, or sticking.

5. Broken teeth. If the teeth do not fit correctly on top of one another, the force of biting or clenching/grinding at night can cause the teeth to actually break. This can only be repaired by a dentist, and if the misalignment is not corrected the problem can occur over and over again.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding crowding of the teeth or Invisalign clear aligners, visit San Francisco dentist Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, crowded teeth, straight teeth, straightening teeth, orthodontics, Invisalign, Invisalign clear aligners, clear aligners, Invisalign treatment, braces, metal braces, gum disease, calculus, plaque, oral bacteria 

The Scoop on Invisalign

The Scoop on Invisalign

By Mina Levi, DDS, 06/04/2015

When it comes to straightening your teeth, one of the best courses of treatment is Invisalign clear aligners. Many people have heard about the Invisalign product or are at least familiar with the Invisalign brand, but some are not aware of the benefits of this type of orthodontic treatment, what it looks like, how much it costs, or what it even does. In this week’s article, San Francisco dentist Mina Levi, DDS breaks down Invisalign clear aligner treatment and answers questions you may have about straightening your teeth and getting your dream smile!

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your dentist or orthodontist plans out for you. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You just pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete. You’ll achieve a great smile with little interference in your daily life. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth.

What do Invisalign trays look like?

Invisalign aligners are made out of a clear, plastic material that is molded to your teeth, as you can see in the image below:

The Invisalign Process:

Step One: Talk to Dr. Mina Levi, a San Francisco Invisalign Preferred Provider

Invisalign Dentist San Francisco Dr. Mina Levi has been a preferred provider with Invisalign for over six years, and has treated many different types of cases with Invisalign. During your initial Invisalign consultation, she will discuss your case with you and determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Dr. Levi will talk through the Invisalign treatment and answer any questions you may have about the process, costs, insurance, or any other concerns. You and Dr. Levi will determine the best course of treatment for you together.

Step Two: Create a 3D Image of Your Teeth

Dr. Levi and her team will take digital x-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth, which Invisalign will use to create a three-dimensional image of your teeth. Dr. Levi will use this image to map out your treatment plan and will be able to show you what your teeth will look like after every step of your Invisalign treatment.

Step Three: Receive Your Clear Aligners

Based on your individualized treatment plan, a series of clear custom-made aligners will be made just for you. Wear the plastic aligners throughout the day, and take them out to eat, drink, brush your teeth and floss. As you continue to wear each set of aligners, your teeth will gradually move into place. These aligners are clear and almost invisible, so most people will not even know you are wearing them.

Step Four: Wear a New Set of Aligners Every 2 Weeks

After two weeks of wearing one set of aligners, you will move onto the next step and then wear that set for another two weeks. To monitor your progress, you will have appointments set up with Dr. Levi about every six weeks. With each set of aligners that you go through, you are one step closer to your dream smile!

Step Five: Reveal Your New Smile

For most adults, treatment typically takes about a year although each individual case is different. The best way to ensure that treatment goes smoothly and as quickly as possible, make sure to wear the aligners about 22 hours a day. Then, you will be ready to show the world the smile you've always wanted.

Treatable cases:

Many different types of cases are treatable with Invisalign, the following are some of the main conditions that are treated:

1. Gapped teeth: Gaps between teeth can occur with abnormal continued growth of the jawbone. Missing teeth can also cause the surrounding teeth to shift due to the extra space, creating gaps in your teeth. Spacing issues and gaps between teeth can lead to gum problems (due to lack of protection by the teeth), periodontal pockets and increased risk of periodontal disease.

2. Overbite: What people commonly refer to as an "overbite" is known to dental professionals as "overjet." It occurs when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. It's typically caused by genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth. This can lead to gum problems or irritation, and/or wear on the lower teeth, and can cause painful jaw and joint problems.

3. Underbite: Underbite can occur when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth. It's usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. It can also be caused by missing upper teeth. This can prevent the normal function of front teeth or molars, which can lead to tooth wear. It can also cause painful jaw and joint problems.

4. Open Bite: Open bite often occurs when some teeth are unable to make physical contact with the opposing teeth for a proper bite. Most often caused by a genetic abnormal jaw structure or excessive thumb-sucking, an open bite can cause poor or painful chewing, and even speech impairment. It can also lead to greater issues like thermo-mandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

5. Crowding: Teeth crowding occurs when there is simply a lack of room within your jaw for all of your teeth to fit normally. When left untreated, overly crowded teeth can get worse over time, and result in severely crooked teeth. This crowding can lead to plaque accumulation, tooth decay and an increased chance of gum disease.

6. Crossbite: Crossbite can occur when the upper and lower jaws are both misaligned. It causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth, and can happen on both the front and the sides of the mouth. This can cause wear of the teeth, gum disease and bone loss.

Is Invisalign a good fit for you? Find out! Visit Invisalign Preferred Provider Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066 to schedule a consultation today!

Topics: Invisalign Dentist San Francisco, San Francisco Dentist, Invisalign, Clear aligners, orthodontics, Invisalign clear aligners, Invisalign invisible aligners, straight teeth, straightening teeth, braces, metal braces, clear braces, invisable braces, Invisalign San Francisco

DIY Braces: They May be Cheap, but They are Not a Good Idea

DIY Braces: They May be Cheap, but They are Not a Good Idea

By Mina Levi, DDS, 03/25/2015

       You may have seen a few stories floating around on the internet about people who have had success with cheap, $5 DIY braces in closing gaps in their teeth like this one. This method may be cheap and affordable, and you don’t have to go into the dentist for check-ups as often, however, there are many major problems that this can cause. Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS explains in this article some of the problems that can occur and why you shouldn’t try DIY braces.

1. Periodontal disease. Rubber bands that people have used as at-home braces can work their way under the gums where a person can no longer reach them or pull them out. This can separate the tooth from the gums and leave areas where the gums can collect bacteria and become infected. Even if the rubber band is retrieved, the attachments will be lost and the gums will harbor bacteria in those areas until the gums are healed with periodontal treatment and maintenance at a dental office.

2. Tooth loss. If rubber bands that sink below the gum line are un-retrievable, the separation of the gum and the tooth will continue and the rubber bands can wrap themselves around the root of the tooth, causing severe infection. The detachment of the gums from the tooth at this level can cause tooth loss alone, but with infection also in consideration, the tooth may be lost along with bone structure. The tooth will then need to be replaced with dentures or an implant. Implants are not an option, however, if there is too much bone loss in the area.

3. Lead poisoning. Metal that is found in DIY braces kits that are sold on the black market have been found to have traces of lead. Using this metal and putting it into your mouth can lead to lead poisoning; this can be fatal.

If the cost of professional Invisalign or metal braces is what may cause you to try DIY braces, please talk to Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS about the multiple financial options that are available to help you pay for Invisalign treatment such as in-office payment plans and Care Credit. If the multiple office visits is what is causing you to think about DIY braces, we can also talk to you about how often you will need to come in to the office and why, and we will try to make the treatment as seamless as possible for you. Please do not use DIY braces, as you could lose your perfectly healthy teeth. To learn more about Invisalign treatment, visit our Invisalign page here or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

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Mobile or "Loose" Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment

Mobile or “Loose” Teeth during Orthodontic Treatment

By Mina Levi, DDS, 10/30/2014

During orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign clear aligners or traditional braces, a patient may feel like their teeth are loose. Many patients feel nervous and confused about this sensation and can have questions like “are my teeth supposed to be loose?” and “why do I feel like my teeth are mobile?” San Francisco Invisalign Dentist Mina Levi DDS explains why teeth are semi-mobile during orthodontic treatment in the article below.

Tooth movement (from crooked to straight) occurs due to pressure applied to the teeth by the orthodontic device such as traditional braces or Invisalign. This pressure is transmitted to the crown, root, periodontal ligament and bone surrounding the tooth. The slow, continuous application of this pressure moves the teeth efficiently. In the direction the teeth are moving, the periodontal (gum) membrane is squeezed. The bone surface contacting this membrane begins to resorb due to activation of bone cells called osteoclasts (bone removing cells). In the places from which the tooth has moved (its original placement) bone cells called osteoblasts (bone building cells) start rebuilding the bone.

This is the reason that the teeth feel loose during orthodontic treatment, because the ligaments are squeezed and the bone is being removed and re-built around the tooth. Once the orthodontic treatment is finished and the teeth are in the final position, the bone stops rebuilding and stabilizes. Therefore, the feeling of tooth mobility will no longer exist. Even though the teeth are more secure in the bone after the treatment is complete, a retainer is still needed to keep the teeth in this position once appliances are removed.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding Invisalign or orthodontic treatment, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, Invisalign, Invisalign preferred provider, Invisalign provider, Invisalign dentist, Invisalign Dentist San Francisco, Invisalign preferred provider San Francisco, San Francisco Invisalign, orthodontic treatment, orthodontics, clear aligners, braces, metal braces, traditional braces, orthodontist San Francisco

Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment

Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment

By Mina Levi, DDS, 08/14/2014

 

A 22 year old female A.G. saw Dentist San Francisco Dr. Mina Levi with a chief complaint of crowding of the teeth and an upper front tooth sticking out more than she would like. The front tooth that was sticking out had a previous history of a root canal with a large plastic composite bonding over the tooth. The secondary concern was the overall look of the teeth with color and shape. After the initial examination, it was concluded that the patient would be a good candidate for Invisalign orthodontic treatment to correct the crowding and pull the front tooth into alignment with the rest of the upper teeth.

  

 

The Invisalign treatment lasted 10 months for patient A.G., and the teeth were aligned.

  

 

Once the Invisalign treatment was completed, Dr. Mina Levi suggested Zoom whitening to change the color of the teeth. However, the root canalled tooth in the front with the composite material on the top would not change color, and a new restoration would have to be placed at the time that the shape of the teeth was being changed.

After the Zoom whitening, the patient decided to restore the front 8 teeth with Lumineers, very thin limited-prep veneers. To begin this process, San Francisco Dentist Mina Levi, DDS reshaped the gumline using laser dentistry, and also re-contoured the teeth in order for the veneers to fit well and not look too bulky in the mouth.

 

After the re-contouring was finished, Dr. Mina Levi took impressions of the teeth and sent them to the laboratory for the Lumineers to be fabricated. About three weeks later, the veneers were placed.

After about 11 months of treatment, through Invisalign, Zoom whitening and Lumineers, the final restorations gave the following final result:

  

If you have any Cosmetic Dentistry concerns or interest in Invisalign, Zoom or Lumineers, give Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS a visit on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

 

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, Cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dentist, cosmetic dentist san Francisco, comprehensive cosmetic treatment, comprehensive cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign clear aligners, Invisalign, Invisalign clear braces, orthodontics, Invisalign dentist San Francisco, Orthodontist San Francisco, Zoom whitening, whitening teeth, teeth whitening, white teeth, Zoom dentist, Zoom San Francisco, Lumineers, Lumineers veneers, porcelain veneers,