Deciding to use an orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening was one of the most life-changing decisions that 80 percent of individuals in a recent study (see link) said they had ever made. If you are thinking about straightening your teeth with an orthodontic treatment, you have the potential of experiencing many benefits. The foremost benefits are to improve your appearance and boost your self-confidence. Here are three other reasons that may surprise you.
Straighten Your Teeth to Improve Your Bite
The American Dental Association feels that the purpose of orthodontics is to help individuals have a healthy bite. When a person’s jaws do not meet properly, the person can experience significant oral health problems. These problems could include the uneven wear of tooth enamel, impaired chewing and speech, tooth decay, and pain and other symptoms related to TMJ issues. Also, if a person is injured, it is more likely that teeth that are protruding will be cracked or chipped.
A dentist can easily examine your teeth and assess your bite. They can then recommend an orthodontic treatment that will straighten your bite and prevent premature wear and future dental problems.
It’s Easier to Clean Teeth That Are Straight
Proper dental hygiene includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. These tasks are much harder to perform when a person has teeth that are crowded and crooked. When the teeth are not cleaned properly, bacteria will accumulate and lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease. If gum disease is not treated, this can lead to the loss of teeth, receding gums, gums that are red, swollen, and bleeding, and halitosis.
Visiting a dentist at least twice a year and maintaining proper oral hygiene are essential to good oral health. When your teeth are better aligned after an orthodontic treatment, you will find it much easier to clean your teeth. Also, you will decrease your chances of gum disease, tooth decay, and other problems.
Good Oral Health Equals Good Overall Health
Starting orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth has the benefit of making you healthier. Here are two main ways this is done.
First, there is a significant connection between good oral health and good physical health. When you neglect your oral health, you may start to experience periodontal disease. Since your gums begin to bleed, this can allow bacteria from your mouth to enter your bloodstream. It has also been proven that diabetes, heart disease, and other systemic diseases are often related to oral infections and inflammation.
Second, when you straighten your teeth, you are taking steps to improve your mental health. You will be more likely to smile, which will make you happier. You will experience a boost of confidence, which will help you reach your goals and lead to you feeling healthier mentally. And you will feel less self-conscious when you are around others. There will be no more hiding your teeth in social situations.
Taking steps to straighten your teeth means that you are taking steps to take care of your whole body.
Enjoy the Benefits That Come from Straight Teeth at Any Age
Adolescents and adults of all ages can enjoy an improved appearance and a boost of self-confidence by using orthodontic treatments to straighten their teeth. This will help them to correct a bad bite, make cleaning their teeth easier, and improve their overall health.
Visiting Texas Orthodontic Specialists today can help you understand whether you or your child need orthodontic treatment. Our initial exams are always complimentary and for your convenience, we have five Houston area Orthodontic locations.