Braces work to align Teeth braces and correct bite problems. They apply pressure on a regular basis to train your teeth to move into their new positions.
Improved Oral Hygiene
Having braces corrects the misalignment of your teeth and bite. This can make your teeth easier to clean, which helps reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Crowded or tightly spaced teeth create nooks and crannies that are breeding grounds for bacteria, which can lead to periodontal diseases. Orthodontic treatment eliminates these spaces, making teeth much easier to brush and floss, helping you maintain good oral hygiene practices and ward off gum disease in the future.
Many types of braces are available today, including ceramic or clear options that are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. There are also lingual braces that are placed on the backs of your teeth, which makes them even more discreet. These options are typically more expensive but are a great choice for individuals who are concerned about the appearance of their braces.
Reduced Risk of Cavities and Gum Disease
Crooked teeth and a misaligned bite often interfere with chewing and speech. These issues can lead to dental complications, including tooth wear, fractures, and gum disease. Braces help correct these problems so you can enjoy a healthy smile.
When a tooth is crowded or crooked, it creates hard-to-reach spots where bacteria can hide and grow. These bacteria adversely affect the gums and teeth, and can even erode your jaw bone if left untreated.
Braces straighten your teeth and align the bite, which helps distribute pressure evenly. This reduces bacterial buildup, minimizes tooth loss, and prevents deterioration of your jaw bone. This also allows you to enjoy more varied foods and enhances digestion, which can help maintain a healthy weight.
Improved Chewing and Digestion
Your teeth play a key role in digestion by partially breaking down and digesting foods before they enter your stomach. When they are misaligned, this process can be hindered, which can lead to digestive discomfort including indigestion and bloating. Braces correct this problem, allowing you to chew and digest foods more effectively.
Crooked or crowded teeth are also harder to clean, leading to bacteria build-up that can lead to gum disease. Braces help you brush and floss your teeth more effectively, preventing this build-up and improving overall oral hygiene.
Misaligned teeth also put excessive pressure on the jaw bone when chewing and biting, which can cause problems like TMJ disorders. Braces correct this problem, reducing pressure on the jaw bone and promoting healthy bone growth.
A More Balanced Diet
Getting braces helps correct overcrowded or crooked teeth that are hard to brush and floss, boosting the effectiveness of your daily oral hygiene regime. This means a decreased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Braces also help to correct misaligned bites, which can strain the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), leading to jaw pain and other problems. Addressing these issues with braces prevents them from developing in the future, preserving your teeth and reducing discomfort in the meantime.
Chewing and digesting food properly allows you to enjoy a more balanced diet that provides all the essential nutrients you need. This includes eating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. In addition, chewing well sends signals to the brain that you’re full, which can help to promote healthy eating habits.
Improved Self-Esteem
Many children and adults have low self-esteem due to their crooked teeth. This can make them hesitant to smile and interact with others. Wearing braces can give them a beautifully aligned smile that will boost their confidence and inspire them to smile more often.
In addition to correcting misaligned teeth and bite issues, braces can make it easier for patients to chew their food. This improves their ability to savor different textures and flavors, making meals more enjoyable. This can help them eat a more balanced diet that supports overall health. Proper chewing also helps to send signals to the brain when they are full, preventing overeating and weight gain.