Make no mistake – achieving an aesthetically flawless smile is a great reason to get orthodontics. However, there are also several health advantages to straightening out crooked teeth that often get overshadowed by the cosmetic perks. If you’re on the fence about getting Invisalign or traditional braces, these four oral wellness benefits might just help you make a decision.
#1. Better Hygiene
If your teeth are crooked or packed too close together, then you know how difficult it can be to get a strand of floss between your pearly whites. Brushing isn’t much easier, as you can never be quite sure whether the soft bristles are reaching every nook and cranny. Even a water flosser would have a hard time clearing out the bacteria hiding in misaligned teeth!
After straightening your pearly whites with orthodontics, you’ll find that your dental cleaning tools are way more effective at promoting good oral hygiene.
#2. Improved Comfort
When teeth don’t line up properly, it negatively affects how chewing pressure is distributed. Some areas of your smile might receive more pressure, while others might get none at all. This can put an increased strain on your jaw, leading to headaches, TMJ pain, and other chronic discomfort in your facial muscles.
By correcting dental misalignment, orthodontics can even-out chewing pressure, effectively treating your pain.
#3. Easier Chewing
Speaking of chewing, have you experienced any eating difficulties? Dental gaps and crooked teeth can make it harder to bite, tear, and grind down your food. Even if you’ve managed to compensate for it by changing your chewing habits, there’s a good chance you’re contributing to the uneven pressure discussed above.
Basically, a well-aligned smile is an effective smile!
#4. Less Wear and Tear
Last but certainly not least, misaligned pearly whites often go through premature wear and tear. In some cases, this is because the teeth are pressing against each other; in other cases, it has more to do with the upper and lower arches gnashing against each other when biting and chewing.
Either way, orthodontic treatment will help prevent thinning enamel, cracks, chips, and other dental damage.
Should I Straighten Out My Crooked Teeth?
More often than not, the answer is a resounding “yes!” But just to be sure, you should talk to your dentist. They’ll be able to take X-rays and dip into their professional knowledge to help you determine whether orthodontic treatment is right for you. Ask them how you might benefit from Invisalign or traditional braces, and they’ll keep you well informed about your options.
About the Practice
Rauchberg Dental Group is proud to be a multi-specialty office. From general dentistry to periodontics and orthodontics, we have an expert with the advanced training and skills to provide you with quality treatment. As our orthodontist, Dr. Denise Kitay would be happy to help you straighten out your crooked teeth so you can enjoy improved oral health. To schedule your consultation today, contact our office at 973-718-9887.