Five Ways Straight Teeth Impact Your Oral Health
Posted on July 27, 2020
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, over four million Americans have braces today. While traditional metal braces have long been associated with younger children and teenagers, more adults are starting to undergo treatment due to the growing popularity of invisible aligners. The most commonly reason for straightening teeth is aesthetics, with patients opting to straighten teeth for a better appearance. The second most common reason is to correct abnormal bite patterns such as an overbite or underbite.
If you are considering straightening your teeth or if your dentist has suggested it, here are some benefits to consider. While you may have put it off in fear of having to wear traditional metal braces, other options are Invisalign aligners. Invisalign aligners make straightening your teeth as an adult easier than ever.
The Benefits of Straight Teeth
1. Cleaner Teeth: Crooked or crowded teeth can make cleaning difficult as overlapping teeth can trap food and bacteria, which makes cavities more likely to develop. Misaligned teeth can also contribute to a build-up of plaque and tartar. This is because the bristles of the toothbrush cannot reach between the teeth enough to effectively brush away the build-up. With straight teeth the cleaning process is much easier, and your teeth will stay healthier for longer. For this reason orthodontists recommend looking into a way to straighten your teeth, especially for teeth that are exceptionally crowded or misaligned.
2. Lowered Risk of Disease: Since straight teeth are easier to clean, they can also help prevent gum disease. This in turn can further prevent bacteria from being able to enter the gums and bloodstream which protects you from other problems such as heart disease or diabetes. If misaligned teeth are left alone for too long and cavities form, these untreated problems can go on to create oral infections and numerous other problems throughout the body. Investing in orthodontic treatment is one of the best ways to help avoid these problems.
3. Maintaining a Healthy Jawbone: If misaligned teeth have led to you needing to have a tooth removed due to decay, the gapped area could go on to contribute to further tooth loss. This is because the missing tooth can cause a weakening in the jawbone, while also causing your already misaligned teeth to shift further. If this is the case it is best to speak with orthodontists in your area to talk about your options and see if straightening would be best for you.
4. Fewer Chips and Cracks: Misaligned protruding teeth are more liable to crack or break during a fall or accident. Additionally, poor oral hygiene can contribute further to weakened teeth making them more prone to cracks, chips, and breakage. To prevent this most orthodontists will advise either braces or Invisalign to straighten teeth and prevent this damage.
5. Fewer Headaches: Misaligned teeth can put pressure on your jaw and impact your bite pattern. Without correction the pressure put on the jaw can affect the temporomandibular joints that connect to the skull. This can in turn create chronic headaches and migraines. By straightening your teeth, you can alleviate this pressure and prevent frequent painful headaches.
A Healthier Mouth
Crooked and misaligned teeth can be more than just a beauty problem. They can make cleaning more difficult and oral disease more likely while also creating jaw problems and headaches. Having your teeth straightened is the best way to ensure that you can not only have a beautiful smile but a healthy one as well. If you are struggling with crooked teeth, consider reaching out to our orthodontist for treatment today. We offer treatment options for all ages with payment plans to fit your budget.