If you are interested in orthodontic treatment, you may have seen some before and after photos that showcase a beautiful looking smile, but there is so much more to orthodontic treatment than the cosmetic perks! From increased self confidence to reducing your likelihood of developing periodontal disease, orthodontic treatment can have a huge impact on your life. To give you a better idea of the benefits of straighter teeth, we have put together a list for you!

 

The Benefits of Straighter Teeth

Straight Teeth Can Improve Your Digestion

A esthetically pleasing smile may be the most visible change caused by treatment, but it is certainly not the only change. Some patients experience difficulties chewing, which often means that the upper and lower jaws are not in harmonious alignment and are unable to properly break down foods. When food is difficult to chew, it can cause troubles with digestion, as the food is not as broken down when it reaches the stomach. The inability to chew effectively can lead to poor diet or digestive upset. When teeth are aligned and the bite is functional, you can bite into and chew all sorts of foods comfortably.

Straight Teeth Can Lead to Fewer Cavities

The bacteria in the mouth mixes with saliva and food to create plaque. When teeth do not have space and are crowded, this plaque can build up in hard-to-reach places, which can be difficult to remove with your toothbrush and floss. Plaque feeds on sugars and starches and releases acids that break down tooth enamel, causing a cavity. After orthodontic treatment, teeth are adequately spaced and positioned, and are therefore easier to clean. This leaves less opportunity for the plaque to build up and decay the teeth.

Straight Teeth Can Lead to Healthier Bone and Gums

As we’ve said, plaque can build up in those tight places. This includes on and beneath the gum line, which can be difficult to brush and floss away, and in some cases, can only be removed by a dental hygienist. Additionally, when teeth are misaligned, the gums may not fit around the teeth properly. This can lead to an early stage gum disease called gingivitis, which is treatable and reversible with appropriate care. If untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis which is a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to deterioration of the tissues and bones, and eventual tooth loss in adults. Gum disease is linked to health conditions including diabetes, heart disease and stroke due to the inflammation caused in the body. Learn more about periodontal disease here.

Straight Teeth Can Increase Self Confidence

The cosmetic alignment of teeth is one of the most obvious advantages to orthodontic treatment. When you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, you are less likely to smile and feel good about the way your look. By straightening your teeth and jaws, you can effect the symmetry and angle of your face and give a more balanced appearance. Orthodontic treatment can give you the confidence to smile and laugh naturally and can increase your self-esteem.

Straight Teeth Cause Less Abnormal Tooth Wear

When teeth and jaws are not in ideal position, teeth can interfere with one another and wear down the enamel in unnatural ways. After orthodontic treatment, the final position is harmonious so that when you speak and chew, teeth are fitting and hitting in their optimal position. By reducing the wear and tear on your teeth, your teeth can stay healthy with less need to repair.

Straight Teeth Can Help With Clear Speech

Having crooked teeth increases the likelihood of developing speech problems such as lisps and speech impediments. The teeth themselves can lead to speech troubles, or they can be caused by adjustments made to hide imperfect teeth. The relative position of the teeth, tongue, jaw and lips are all integral to proper speech.

 

Book Your Complimentary Consultation

There are many benefits that come from orthodontic treatment, and each patient who walks through the door has unique reasons for wanting to proceed, from increasing confidence to correcting speech to improving their experience at the dinner table. You can learn about even more benefits of straightening your teeth here. Whatever your motivation, contact Cory Liss Orthodontics today at 403-287-0746 and one of our amazing team members can help you. You can also complete a consultation request form online here. We hope to see your smile soon!