Orthodontics and the Health Benefits of Teeth Straightening

Most people associate teeth straightening treatment with a desire to improve their appearance; however, that is not the only reason to undergo treatment. These procedures are also recommended by general dentistry professionals as a way to improve oral health and function. Teeth straightening plays a very big role in the success of oral health. 

There are a lot of benefits that are associated with undergoing teeth straightening treatment. Having a full understanding of these benefits can be helpful when considering undergoing treatment. Continue reading to learn more. 

Can teeth straightening benefit oral health?

Outlined below are a few health benefits that come with undergoing teeth straightening treatment from a general dentist.

Oral diseases

When individuals have crooked or crowded teeth, they are much more likely to develop oral infections. Crooked teeth can result in hard-to-reach areas in the mouth, which may make brushing and flossing more difficult, resulting in left-behind food debris. Left-behind food debris almost always turns into plaque, which develops into tartar, both of which are harmful to oral health. Likewise, those who have crowded teeth may experience similar problems. 

Undergoing teeth straightening treatment can help straighten out crooked teeth and allow more room for teeth that are crowded in the jaw. Once straightened, there is less of a risk of bacteria building up. Both crowding and crookedness can be treated through braces or clear aligners, depending on the severity. If clear aligners are not a suitable option due to the severity of the case, the dentist may recommend a more aggressive form of teeth straightening treatment, such as traditional or clear braces. 

Jaw problems

Another health benefit of undergoing teeth straightening treatment is that there is less of a risk that jaw problems will develop. When the top and bottom arch do not properly align, a general dentist refers to the problem as an issue with the bite. Bite issues can result in jaw malfunction or even dysfunction, both of which can lead to long-term misalignment. Over time, a misalignment in the jaw can cause serious problems such as TMJ disorder. This is a disorder that negatively affects a small hinge that connects the jaw to the skull. Extensive treatment is required to treat this disorder as it can lead to pain and malfunction. 

Teeth straightening treatments such as braces can be used to correct the overbite or underbite so that the jaw remains in good health, eliminating the risk of problems later on down the line. Jaw problems are typically treated through traditional braces and orthodontic headgear. Currently, the technology behind clear aligners has not proven to produce successful results in regard to treating an under or overbite. 

Injuries or accidents

Crooked or crowded teeth can also make individuals more at risk for injury. If certain teeth protrude excessively, they may be more prone to getting hit or dislodged during a sporting event or practice. Additionally, injuries or accidents are much more likely to happen when eating if there are too many crowded teeth or teeth that stick out quite a bit. Having teeth straightening treatment administered can help lower the chance that an injury might take place. Minor crowding or crookedness can be treated with clear aligners or braces. 

For minor to moderate issues with crookedness or crowding, it may be ideal to undergo clear aligners treatment because it is more comfortable and less noticeable. However, if the crowding is serious or a tooth is extremely protruded from the arch of teeth, then braces might be more suitable. 

Gum health

What a lot of people may not realize is that the health of the gums can also be affected by crooked or crowded teeth, as well as bite issues. When there are teeth that are severely crowded, the result is often harder to reach areas when trying to perform oral hygiene. This can poorly affect the gums, which may lead to an infection. The same goes for teeth that are extremely crooked. For example, if one tooth is protruded quite a bit, the gum tissue will have to accommodate the position, which can leave certain areas more exposed and at risk of injury. 

Learn more about teeth straightening

Outside of health benefits, there are a number of advantages that come with undergoing teeth straightening treatment. To learn more about these benefits, it is best to consult with a general dentist. An evaluation can be performed to determine if there are any patient-specific benefits. Additionally, the evaluation can determine the appropriate course of action in regards to treatment. Reach out today to learn more or to get started!

Request an appointment here: https://www.orthodonticprecision.com or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at (703) 391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.

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