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It may come as a surprise, but straight teeth do not only provide an aesthetically pleasing outcome. In todays society, aesthetics play a significant role in overall happiness, but straightened teeth go far beyond appearances. From easier cleaning to increased self-esteem, having straight, pearly whites support the healthy function of various parts of the body. Additionally, there are proven social and psychological benefits.
The overall goal of orthodontic treatment is to balance function and aesthetics to provide satisfying and beneficial results that positively impact all areas of your life. If youre thinking about correcting your smile, be sure to consider the eight benefits outlined below.
Easier Cleaning
Straight teeth are easier to clean because it provides uninterrupted access for thorough brushing and flossing. When teeth are overlapped or misaligned, it creates pockets for plaque to hide and build up. The bacteria in plaque can interact with the food you eat to release acids, and these acids are the sole reason why cavities develop. The ease of brushing and flossing with aligned teeth ensures that an effective, deep clean can happen every time you brush and floss.
Reduced Risk of Decay
With easier cleaning comes a reduced risk of decay. When teeth are easier to clean, it eliminates the chance of unwanted dental problems. Improved oral hygiene means less tooth decay and the possibility of tooth loss. The greater the amount of time food remains in the mouth, the greater the chance for decay. Additionally, tooth decay and gum disease are related to more dangerous health problems, including heart disease and high blood pressure.
Healthier Gums
Regular flossing is crucial to keep the gums in a healthy state. Straight teeth allow for proper flossing between each tooth and the ability to remove plaque that could potentially reach the gum line. Without the incorporation of flossing into your daily oral hygiene routine, you could develop unwanted gum infections. Diligent oral care can prevent gum disease, and a lower risk of gum disease means a reduced risk of tooth loss.
Improved Speech
As a vital part of the mouth, teeth play a crucial role in the way we speak. Crooked, overlapped, or gapped teeth can cause speech impediments and affect overall speaking patterns. In turn, confidence levels may suffer and, it could impact your performance in a social or professional setting. Orthodontic treatment can readjust the positioning of the teeth to allow for more clear and precise speech.
Better Digestion
Do you know that teeth play a substantial role in overall digestion? Crooked or crowded teeth can compromise chewing abilities, which in turn can lead to major digestive problems. Before food enters your stomach, it is digested partially by the teeth. If teeth are misaligned, they may not break down food as effectively as they should.
Improved Bite
Malocclusion, or a bad bite, affects how well the jaws fit together when the mouth is closed. When teeth are misaligned, the force of the uneven bite can put unwanted pressure on the teeth and wear down the enamel layer. This pressure can also result in bruxism (grinding), TMJ and jaw pain, headaches, facial pain, and more. To put it simply: a properly aligned jaw and teeth work better.
Better Overall Health
Straight teeth are healthy teeth that can protect your overall health. It is easier to practice efficient and effective oral hygiene with a properly aligned smile because it can successfully kill bacteria and reduce the risk of major dental issues. Studies have shown that infections that originate in the mouth can potentially affect the entire body. There are blood vessels in the mouth that connect to your entire system. If the gums become infected by bacteria, they could enter your bloodstream and lead to unwanted, serious health problems.
A Confident Smile
One of the most rewarding benefits of straight teeth is feeling proud to show off your smile. In an ideal world, our appearance wouldnt heavily influence othersfirst impressions of us. Unfortunately, this is not the case, and a confident smile is one of the most memorable first impressions you can make. Having a properly aligned smile that youre not afraid to hide can give you a boost of confidence and an edge in a variety of social situations and professional settings.
Orthodontic treatment is not all about looks. There are proven links between your oral health and your entire body. After all, everything is connected. If youre considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth and enhance your smile, dont forget the benefits to your overall health and well-being.