Invisalign® and Smoking Are a Bad Combination
When patients meet with Dr. Kellyn Hodges, they can expect to undergo exceptional orthodontic care. One of the leading orthodontists in the greater Philadelphia area, Dr. Hodges makes sure to answer all patient questions and concerns. This is an especially important consideration when it comes to Invisalign®, a popular alternative to traditional braces for adults and teens.
About Invisalign®
Invisalign® is an alternative to traditional orthodontics. Rather than using brackets and wires like metal braces, Invisalign® relies on the use of clear plastic aligner trays. Patients wear these trays at all times save for when they are eating, drinking, and cleaning their teeth. Every two weeks, patients will receive a new Invisalign® aligner to wear, gradually shifting the teeth into a better aligned position.
These trays are custom molded to a patient's teeth, and the entire treatment process is carefully designed, aligner to aligner, using advanced computer models. This means that each tray is perfectly crafted so that patients can experience a full realignment of his or her smile.
How Tobacco Products Affect Your Dental Health
Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco are bad for your general health and wellness, and they have a number of negative effects on your dental health as well. People who use tobacco products are more likely to experience issues with gum disease and gum recession, and they also tend to experience serious issues with tooth discoloration, tooth decay, and bad breath.
There are plenty of compelling reasons to quit using tobacco products, and the way that these items affect your smile is just another reason to consider.
How Tobacco Products Affect Invisalign® Treatment
While the Invisalign® trays are removable and you can technically smoke or use tobacco products while undergoing treatment, it's a very bad idea. The tobacco can stain the aligner trays, and it can also lead to major issues with your overall health and wellness. Since the tobacco can get caught in the aligner tray, it can lead to your teeth being exposed to tobacco all day, which can make problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and acidic erosion more likely.
In order to avoid major dental health problems, just say no to tobacco products while you are undergoing Invisalign® treatment.
Quit Smoking Before and While Undergoing Orthodontic Care
It's ideal for patients to quit smoking before they undergo Invisalign® and avoid all tobacco products during treatment. This will help ensure a healthy mouth and that the Invisalign® process proceeds without complications.
Consult with Your Orthodontist and General Practitioner for Help Quitting Smoking
Quitting cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco is easier said than done, of course, which is why you should consider speaking with your orthodontist and general practitioner for information on quitting smoking. This will help you achieve great health and ensure a successful Invisalign® treatment.
Learn More About Invisalign® Orthodontic Treatment
To learn more about Invisalign® and how it can help you have a healthy and properly aligned smile, we encourage you to contact our orthodontic care specialists today. Dr. Hodges and the entire team here looks forward to your visit and providing you with detailed information about how you can have the healthiest smile possible.