Many people think cosmetic dentistry is only about fixing how teeth look. While appearance is important, cosmetic dentistry often does much more than that. In many cases, underlying oral health issues cause cosmetic dentistry problems that we treat in Washington, DC.
At Foxhall Smiles, Dr. Joseph Catazano focuses on treating the root of the problem. Our goal is to help you achieve your dream smile and ensure your teeth, bite, and jaw are healthy and working properly. A beautiful smile should also be functional.
When Cosmetic Concerns Are Signs of Bigger Problems
Cosmetic dental issues rarely happen on their own. Problems like crooked teeth, worn edges, gaps, chips, or uneven spacing often affect how well your mouth functions. Over time, these issues can place extra stress on your teeth and jaw, making everyday tasks like chewing and speaking more difficult.
When left untreated, cosmetic concerns can lead to long-term oral health problems. That’s why cosmetic dentistry should always begin with a full evaluation of your teeth, gums, and bite.
At our Washington, DC dental office, we take the time to understand what’s causing the issue so we can recommend solutions that improve both appearance and function. By addressing the underlying problem we can help protect your smile for years.
Crooked Teeth Are a Common Cosmetic and Oral Health Issue
Many patients feel self-conscious about their smile and may try to hide it in photos or social situations. But crooked teeth aren’t just a cosmetic issue. Overcrowded or overlapping teeth are harder to clean properly. Brushing and flossing becomes more difficult, especially between tight spaces.
Plaque and tartar can build up in areas you can’t reach, increasing your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and chronic bad breath. Over time, these issues can lead to more serious dental problems that require extensive treatment.
How Crooked Teeth Can Affect Your Bite and Jaw
Crooked teeth can also cause an uneven bite. When teeth don’t line up the way they should, your jaw has to work harder to open and close properly. This can place extra stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
An uneven bite is one of the most common contributors to TMJ disorders. When the jaw doesn’t track correctly, the joint can begin to wear down. This may lead to symptoms such as:
- Jaw popping or clicking
- Pain when chewing
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Headaches or facial pain
- Neck and shoulder discomfort
A balanced bite makes everyday life easier. Chewing feels more comfortable, which can help your digestion. Your teeth wear down evenly, so they are less likely to chip, crack, or feel sensitive. Many people also notice fewer headaches and less jaw, face, or neck pain. Straight teeth help your mouth work properly and keep your teeth and gums healthy for the long term.
Invisalign for Crooked Teeth
At Foxhall Smiles, we offer Invisalign as a comfortable and discreet way to straighten crooked teeth and improve your bite. Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligners that gently move your teeth into their correct positions over time.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners do not use metal brackets or wires. It’s a popular option for adults and teens who want a more subtle orthodontic treatment that fits into their daily lives.
Invisalign offers several advantages for patients looking to improve both their smile and oral health:
- Removable aligners
- Easier oral hygiene
- Comfortable fit
- Discreet appearance
- Improved bite alignment
Invisalign doesn’t just improve how your smile looks, it helps your teeth and jaw function better, too. By gradually moving your teeth into the right positions, the clear aligners can improve your bite and reduce uneven pressure on your jaw.
Support Your Oral Health
Cosmetic dentistry works best when it’s part of a complete dental care plan. At our Washington, DC office, we carefully evaluate your oral health before recommending cosmetic treatment. This ensures your results are not only beautiful, but also strong, healthy, and long-lasting.
Our team will help you understand your options and choose a treatment plan that fits your goals. If you’ve been thinking about improving your smile, cosmetic care may offer more benefits than you realize. Get cosmetic dentistry in Washington, DC that supports both appearance and oral health. Call 202-315-2188 or request an appointment with Dr. Catanzano online.