The Benefits of Straight Teeth

Are you hiding your smile every time someone aims a camera your way? Maybe it’s time to consider an orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign. After all, you’re never too old to get straight teeth! In fact, one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 18.

There are a few different ways orthodontics can help improve your smile and self-esteem. Still on the fence? Keep reading to discover the benefits of straight teeth!

Reduced Decay

Are you having a difficult time flossing and brushing your teeth because your teeth are angled or crowded? Your daily oral health habits are essential to prevent buildup of plaque or tarter.

When teeth are crowded or crooked, food particles that get stuck between your teeth can become plaque or tartar, which can then lead to cavities. If your teeth are crooked, they might start to decay faster because they are not being properly cleaned. Eventually, tooth decay can cause pain and tooth loss.

One of the health benefits of straight teeth is the reduced risk of tooth decay. When your teeth are straight, food particles and bacteria won’t get stuck as easily, so daily oral hygiene becomes much easier.

Having straight teeth can help you avoid potential oral health issues down the road.

Improved Gum Health

Your teeth aren’t the only ones to benefit from treatment! Having straight teeth can help your gums and jaws, too.

When your teeth are straight, it’s easier to brush and floss properly. Food and plaque stuck between your teeth can cause gums to become inflamed leading to a gum infection called gingivitis.

Gingivitis can lead to swollen, red, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis could lead to periodontitis and tooth loss.

If you’re experiencing gum or tooth pain, speak with your dentist right away. Making a plan to straighten your teeth may help avoid additional problems with your gums.

Bruxism

Not many people realize that the benefits of straight teeth go beyond aesthetics. In fact, having straight teeth can also help you reduce the risk of other issues like alignment.

Think about the current state of your teeth. When your teeth are straight, the top and bottom teeth should rest against one another naturally.  If your teeth are crooked, however, they likely won’t align properly and you may face an overbite or underbite issue. As a result, you might begin to experience uneven wear and tear against your enamel.

Some people may also clench their teeth when sleeping and/or when awake. It’s also common for people to grind their teeth. This condition is often referred to as bruxism. Bruxism can further wear down your protective enamel. Some patients with bruxism develop sleep disorders like sleep apnea.

Are you experiencing any bruxism symptoms? These symptoms can include:

  • Increases sensitivity or pain
  • Headaches
  • Interrupted sleep
  • Soreness to the jaw, face, or neck
  • Loose, flattened, fractured, or chipped teeth
  • Chewing the inside of your teeth
  • Worn enamel
  • Tight jaw muscles

Having straight teeth can help you avoid these issues. Once your bite and alignment improve, your tendency to grind your teeth together will reduce.

Avoid Injury

Having straight teeth can help reduce your risk of an oral injury, too.

When your teeth are crooked, they’re more likely to stick out at odd angles. Sometimes, this can cause you to bite your tongue or the inside of your lips.

Speak with your dentist or orthodontist about the current state of your teeth. They can help you determine if you’re a good candidate for orthodontic treatment. For example, they might look for an over-, under-, or cross-bite.

Make Space

Having straight teeth can also make it easier for you to receive other types of orthodontic treatment. For example, are you missing any of your adult teeth? A dental implant can close the gaps in your smile.

Like orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign, dental implants can help you avoid future dental health issues. Implants can also make speaking and chewing easier. It can also reduce sleep apnea symptoms.

Before you can receive implants, you’ll need to make sure your teeth are straight. Otherwise, you might not have enough space between your teeth for the implants.

Easier Chewing

Are you struggling to chew your food with crooked teeth? If you are struggling with an overbite or under bite, eating may become difficult or painful. In addition, you may become self-conscious when eating with others.

Renewed Confidence

Are you one of the four adults who avoid smiling to hide their teeth? You’re not alone. About 23% of adults feel embarrassed by the state of their teeth.

Having straight teeth can give you the confidence boost you’re looking for. By straightening your teeth, you can approach people with a bright, confident smile. It could even help you make a strong first impression during job interviews or a first date.

Making a strong first impression is important. People will remember your self-confidence and big smile.

Conclusion

The benefits of straight teeth don’t stop with this list! Consider speaking with your dentist or orthodontist during your next appointment. We can explore what options are available to you so that you won’t have to hide your smile any longer.

Send us a message to request your next appointment today!