Dear Dish-it,
Crooked asks: I have horrible teeth. They’re crooked, and new teeth are growing where there isn't room. I dread smiling with teeth, but even with a closed mouth I look like I’m scowling. I also hate brushing my teeth so I’ve stopped. I figure mouthwash does the same thing. How can I stop my teeth from being crooked without getting braces, because I hate going to the dentist.
Crooked
Dear Crooked
When it comes to crooked teeth, there’s no way around it. You need to see the dentist. Depending on your particular situation, you may need braces, a retainer and/or to have some of your teeth removed to make room for others. Understand that this is completely normal. Most kids or teens have to fix their teeth at some point. Growing a set of perfectly straight, white and healthy teeth is very rare.
Dental Care Options
Talk to your dentist about your dental care options. Invisalign could be an option for you. Invisalign is a clear, removable type of braces that is molded to the shape of your mouth. If you’re embarrassed of having braces, or scared that they will hurt, this could be an option for you.
Brushing Your Teeth
As for brushing your teeth, it must be done. I know it sucks, but it’s a must, not just for fresh breath and whiter teeth, but for your overall oral health. Human mouths are filled with bacteria. If you don’t brush your teeth, plaque will build up and eat away at your tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is important because it protects your teeth from cavities, discoloration, swollen gums and sensitivity. If you don’t like going to the dentist, then you need to brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss at least once. Otherwise, you’ll eventually find yourself visiting the dentist more often for things like cavities and root canals. Not fun!
Tooth Enamel
Just remember, it’s important to take care of your teeth now while you’re young or you’ll have nothing but dental problems later. Once you lose your tooth enamel, it’s gone for good. That means you may have to give up certain hot and cold foods, such as ice cream, because your mouth will be too sensitive to bare it. As much as you hate brushing and going to the dentist now, it’s only going to get worse if you don’t take care of your teeth. So brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush, my friend!
Have Your Say
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