It’s common for people to consider braces if they’re unhappy with their appearance thanks to crowded or unevenly spaced teeth. But even if you’re not particularly concerned about aesthetics, orthodontics in Kittanning could still change your life for the better. In this post, you can learn about 4 health benefits to having straight teeth; keep them in mind when considering whether or not braces might be the right choice for you.
1. Improved Oral Hygiene
It’s hard to floss between teeth that are overlapping or are crowded too closely together. And even if you do manage to get the floss to fit, the awkward angles involved make it more likely that you’ll miss a spot without meaning to. It’s also much more difficult to brush your teeth thoroughly when you can’t reach every surface. All of this ultimately means that it’s easier for plaque and tartar to accumulate on a crooked smile, and that raises the risk of tooth decay. By straightening the teeth, you can improve your oral hygiene and protect yourself from cavities much more effectively.
2. Straight Teeth Improve Digestion
You might not be able to chew your food as well with crooked teeth, meaning your stomach and intestines will have to work harder to break down whatever you swallow; consequently, you may experience stomach issues and might not enjoy the full nutritional value of your meal. Straighter teeth are needed for effective chewing that ensures a smooth digestive process.
3. Reduced Neck and Head Pain
The way the teeth fit together affects the amount of stress placed on your jaw joints, jawbone, and gums. When the teeth are all perfectly aligned, the forces of your bite are distributed evenly throughout the mouth, so no one area receives more stress than it can handle. Crooked teeth, on the other hand, may contribute to alignment problems that can lead to chronic pain in the jaw, neck, or face; sometimes they might even cause headaches. While such symptoms can be treated as they arise, the only way to stop the pain once and for all is to correct the problem at its source.
4. Fewer Breaks, Chips, and Cracks
Your teeth are more likely to break if they stick out in different directions. Even biting down too hard could cause severe damage. Straightening your teeth with braces will help keep them safe from accidents and trauma. It also reduces the wear and tear they experience on a daily basis.
Do you think braces in Kittanning might help you keep your smile healthy and intact? Set up a consultation with your orthodontist today to discuss what you can do to improve your uneven teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller is a highly experienced dentist who has been helping Kittanning families smile since 1981. He has a tendency to bring attention to the more “peripheral” aspects of oral health that you might not have noticed on your own. To that end, he is happy to offer braces for anyone with crooked teeth or a misaligned bite. To schedule an orthodontic consultation, visit his website or call (724) 543-4948.