5 Benefits of Orthodontics

As many people in Springville, UT, know, orthodontics give you a more beautiful smile. What else is there to discuss, right? Well, there are several other reasons why braces and other orthodontic treatments are beneficial to a person’s oral health. They help with your gums, teeth, jaw and even self-esteem. Here are five benefits of orthodontics:

1. Easier to Clean Teeth

Even if you brush regularly and floss daily, it can be difficult to keep your teeth completely clean if they’re crooked or you have a misaligned bite. These conditions create hard-to-reach areas where it’s extremely hard to clean with a toothbrush or floss. That means it’s easier for food to get caught or tartar to build up in your mouth. The result? Bad breath, bacteria development and other issues. Post-orthodontic treatment, it’s much easier to clean all of your teeth. 

2. Less Jaw/Tooth Strain

From chewing to speaking, your mouth is constantly opening and closing throughout the day. If you have a misaligned bite or crooked teeth, your jaw has to work extra-hard to perform these simple functions. That strain can cause enamel to wear down more quickly and can even lead to a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Braces correct your bite to lessen that strain.

3. Improved Self-Confidence

Orthodontic treatment gives you a more beautiful smile, sure, but it has both physical and emotional benefits. With straight teeth, you won’t be as afraid to smile in photos, gatherings and everyday interactions. Studies even show that since people with straighter teeth have more confidence, they become more outgoing and happier with life in general.

4.  Lower Cavity and Gum Disease Risk

Sugary foods, acidic drinks and smoking aren’t the only reasons people develop cavities and gum disease. One of the biggest culprits is actually a misaligned bite. Since crooked teeth or a misaligned bite make teeth harder to clean, it allows plaque and bacteria to develop easier. Orthodontic treatment makes it easier to limit the spread or development of this bacteria, thus lowering the risk for gum disease, cavities and even severe dental issues like tooth loss.

5. Reduced Risk for Other Health Problems

There are two other areas where crooked teeth can pose big problems, especially in children: sports and nutrition. Kids who have crooked teeth and are involved in high-contact athletic activities have a higher risk of receiving or administering a sports injury. Crooked teeth also can cause digestion problems and improper nutrient absorption, in addition to posing a choking hazard because of swallowing larger bites of food. Finally, studies show that bacteria developed in the mouth can possibly get into the bloodstream and affect other bodily organs. Braces lower the risk of all of these potential problems.

Want to straighten things out? Come to church, Dr. Church! We can help you discover the benefits of orthodontics in Springville, Utah, for yourself. Contact us today.