Home/Blog / Straight Teeth is About More Than Just Appearance Says Phoenix Orthodontist

Phoenix, AZ — According to statistics from the American Academy of Orthodontics, 5 million Americans are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, while 66 to 75 percent of American adults suffer from some degree of malocclusion, or crooked teeth, and could benefit from an orthodontic procedure. Despite the fact that most patients associate straight teeth with dental aesthetics, Dr. Chris Murphy, an orthodontist in Phoenix, says many are unaware of the benefits proper alignment can offer to their overall oral health. Thanks to modern advancements in orthodontics, Dr. Murphy says patients can enjoy both a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth through a properly-performed procedure such as metal braces or Invisalign in Phoenix.

Although he says traditional orthodontics have offered consistent, effective results for years, Dr. Murphy adds that the recent innovations in braces technology and more aesthetic techniques have brought forth a new era of precision and beauty for patients looking for a straighter and healthier smile. He says achieving a more aesthetically aligned smile with Invisalign® or clear braces in Phoenix has helped patients take better care of their gums and teeth, promoting better oral hygiene.

“There are two things I tell my patients all the time,” says Dr. Murphy. “The first is that straighter teeth offers better cleansability. In other words, having straight teeth can allow patients to clean their teeth better which will lead to better periodontal health. The other benefit is proper occlusion, or alignment, which helps a patient’s teeth function better. By improving the alignment of their teeth, patients can dramatically increase the longevity of their teeth and help prevent the development of TMJ disorder.”

In order to achieve the straight, healthy dental structure desired by most patients, Dr. Murphy says he employs several advanced techniques for shifting and moving teeth in a comfortable and discreet way: the Damon braces system and Invisalign®. Using body heat-activated, titanium alloy wires, the Damon System moves teeth into position through a process known as self-ligation, which eliminates the need for elastic ties and minimizes discomfort. On the other hand, Invisalign® is a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually shift teeth into the desired location and allow patients to remove them each morning and night for easy daily cleaning. While a majority of his adult patients opt for the Invisalign® treatment because it is less noticeable and more aesthetically-pleasing, Dr. Murphy says both procedures offer numerous benefits and effective results for improving their overall oral health, as well as their appearance.

Regardless of which procedure patients decide is the best fit for their needs, Dr. Murphy says the most important step for achieving the highest quality outcome is selecting the right board-certified orthodontist. Whether patients are looking for Invisalign® or a more intensive treatment such as orthognathic surgery, he encourages patients to take the time to research both their procedure and their practice before making any decisions. Through partnership with a dedicated orthodontist, Dr. Murphy says patients can enjoy the benefits of a healthier mouth and a more beautiful smile.

About Christopher Murphy, DDS

An honors graduate of the University of the Pacific Dental School, Dr. Chris Murphy earned his Master’s degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He is board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, and several other professional organizations. Dr. Murphy has been published in numerous orthodontic journals and is required reading for any orthodontist seeking board certification. He has also been voted by Phoenix Magazine as one of Phoenix’s Top Orthodontists.

Murphy Orthodontics is located at 4910 E. Greenway Road Suite 1 in Scottsdale, AZ, reachable at (602) 482-0022, and 13210 W. Van Buren Street Suite 106 in Goodyear, AZ, reachable at (623) 932-9212. It can also be contacted online via the website murphyorthodontics.com or facebook.com/MurphyOrthodontics.