A New Smile Was the Best Investment of My Life

4 Health And Social Benefits Of Straight Teeth

5 June 2015

Oscar Allen

Many people think that braces are only beneficial for children. However, many adults can also benefit from visiting an orthodontist to be fitted for braces. Regardless of your age, there is a range of benefits with straight teeth that go beyond just cosmetic. Having straight teeth provides health and social benefits as well.

Straight Teeth Prevent Tooth Decay

When teeth are crooked, misaligned and/or overlapping, it makes it difficult to thoroughly brush and floss. The surface of some of your teeth may not get the proper cleaning with daily dental care. Improper dental care may increase the risk of cavities, which in turn results in the need for extensive dental work, such as root canals, fillings and other expensive and uncomfortable dental procedures.

Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease

Poor dental hygiene as a result of misaligned teeth can have an effect on the health of your gums. If the plaque on your teeth is not completely removed during your routine oral care, it will accumulate and harden into tarter deposits. Tartar buildup causes the gum tissue to become infected and inflamed and it encourages the growth of harmful bacteria. This bacteria gradually find its way into the bloodstream and may lead to cardiovascular disease.

Other Problems Resulting From Crooked Teeth

Overbite, under-bite and other types of misaligned teeth can lead to a range of complications and painful problems, including:

• Headaches
• Earaches
• Speech difficulties
• Disorders of the temporomandibular (jaw) bone and joint
• Biting and chewing problems

Confidence and Self-Esteem It is common for people of all ages to cover their smile when they are embarrassed by the appearance of their teeth. One of the best results of braces is the boost in confidence and self-esteem many people experience with straight teeth. An attractive smile makes you feel better about your appearance and more confident in a variety of situations, including social activities, work and school.

Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which contributes to a healthier smile. Taking care of your teeth with appropriate oral hygiene will help to prevent future cavities, periodontal disease and can help to reduce the risk of destruction of the jaw bone. If you have been putting off getting braces, because you didn't want to wear the metal brackets and wires, the good news is today's orthodontics provide more options in braces, including ceramic, clear aligners and lingual braces, all of which are designed to be less visible. To find out more about orthodontia, speak with someone like Cazes Family Dentistry LLC.

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