When people think about braces, it’s often associated with straightening awkward gaps for aesthetic purposes. A straighter smile can do wonders for boosting one’s self-confidence, and while it can make for a better appearance, getting braces offers more health benefits beyond picture-perfect pearls.
Misaligned teeth, an improper bite, unmatched dental midlines, overcrowding, and periodontal problems all have a detrimental impact on your health, leading to bone erosion, indigestion, and a higher risk of developing gum diseases. With that in mind, here is a list of health problems braces can address:
Exploring Different Medical Benefits of Braces Beyond a Straight Smile
Benefit #1: A Better Bite Promotes a Healthier Digestion
Crooked teeth not only look unsightly, but it can also compromise your chewing abilities. The teeth should grind food properly to break down food, allowing the body to process it properly and absorb its nutrients. It also makes brushing the teeth more difficult, which can also affect the digestive system since it attracts more bacteria through the saliva.
In that regard, misaligned teeth can negatively impact a critical part of the digestive process and increase the risk of biting the tongue, cheeks, or lips when chewing. By fixing your teeth, you can mitigate complications with your digestion and freely enjoy your meals.
Benefit #2: A Straighter Teeth Stops Bone Erosion
The proper teeth alignment can determine how much pressure you place on your jawbone when you’re eating, speaking, or even sleeping. The pressure can impact bone growth, which can make or mar its structural integrity over time.
A straighter smile ensures you apply even pressure throughout the jaw bone, mitigating the risk of bone erosion due to the lack of stimulus to the jaw bone. Braces can restore your teeth to their optimal alignment, allowing you to maintain proper stimulation for the jaw.
Benefit #3: Straighter Smile Also Lowers Risks of Diseases
Aligned teeth are significantly easier to brush, floss, and maintain good oral hygiene overall. This means you can lower the risk of developing tooth decay and other gum problems, allowing you to eliminate as many harmful bacteria that can facilitate oral infections.
The Bottom Line: The Importance of Fixing Your Teeth and How it Impacts your Health in Various Ways
Getting braces is a must for teenagers and adults with crooked teeth, but there’s more to this orthodontic treatment than just straight teeth. It can impact your health in more ways than one, from your chewing capabilities, speech, and even vulnerability to sleep apnea.
Correcting malocclusions can lower your risk of disease and better overall health on top of your improved self-confidence. It’s a valuable investment that can enhance different aspects of your life beyond appearances.
Why Choose Us?
Looking to bring back the confidence behind your smile? Our qualified and reliable local dentists in Waterford, MI, USA can help improve your dental health with our multifaceted services. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation!