Appearances are important, and many people want to straighten their teeth solely because they desire to enhance their smile. That is perfectly okay. But did you know that correcting dental misalignment can do so much more than improve your facial aesthetics? Let’s talk about some significant health benefits of straight teeth.
Better Digestion
Your mouth is an important part of your digestive system. If you do not thoroughly chew your food, the rest of your digestive tract might not make enough of the enzymes that are necessary to break down what you eat and extract nutrients from it. As a result, you could become bloated and experience other issues. Unfortunately, misaligned teeth may make it difficult to thoroughly chew your food. Straight teeth, on the other hand, are capable of handling even tough foods without too much difficulty.
Lower Risk of Cavities and Bad Breath
Misaligned teeth — especially those that are overcrowded — can trap bacteria and other debris between them. Over time, this can lead to bad breath and an increased risk of cavities. Straight teeth are much easier to keep clean and have a lower risk of suffering from decay.
Fewer TMJ Problems
Your TMJ is the joint that connects your mandible (lower jaw) to the rest of your skull. TMJ disorder (TMD), which can encompass any number of problems with the TMJ, is sometimes caused by misaligned teeth. Many patients who suffer from TMD find that after orthodontic treatment, their symptoms are greatly diminished or even disappear altogether.
Lower Risk of Tooth Damage
Your teeth should fit together well when you close your mouth. Misaligned teeth, however, hit one another at odd angles and are at an increased risk of breaking and chipping. Straightening your teeth and correcting malocclusion (bite problems) can protect your smile from damage.
Improved Mental Well-Being
A 2017 study concluded that dissatisfaction with dental appearance is a strong predictor of low self-esteem in adolescents. Even many adults may find that their self-image and mental health are adversely affected by the state of their teeth. You may find that after orthodontic treatment, you enjoy new confidence and a more balanced view of the person you see in the mirror.
Clearer Speech
The teeth play a big role in clear speech. For example, they are important for making “f,” “sh,” and “s” sounds. If your teeth are misaligned, you might find it difficult to communicate clearly and with confidence. After treatment, however, any speech abnormalities may disappear or at least be less severe.
Straightening your teeth isn’t just a matter of looking your best — it can also improve your health! Your orthodontist can help you learn more about the benefits you can expect to experience as you address your dental misalignment.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Amin Mason is a board-certified orthodontist who provides a broad range of services to families in the Columbus area. For example, he offers traditional braces, clear aligners, lingual braces, and more. If you are interested in exploring the benefits of orthodontic treatment, contact our Polaris office at 614-781-6990.
