Why get orthodontics? The benefits of orthodontics explained.

Many people think of orthodontic treatments as being purely cosmetic, but the benefits of orthodontics go far beyond aesthetics. Orthodontic treatments can improve your current oral health and even prevent the risk of dental problems in the future.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that uses braces, retainers, and other appliances to straighten teeth and correct bites. Your bite is the way your upper and lower teeth fit together when you close your mouth. An incorrect bite can cause a number of problems, including pain in the jaw and even problems eating and speaking.

12 benefits of getting orthodontics:

1. Improves your smile

Someone’s smile is often the first thing we notice about them and one of the most noticeable benefits of orthodontics. Orthodontics can correct crooked, gapped, and crowded teeth, resulting in a straighter, more symmetrical smile. So it’s no surprise that improving their smile is why many people choose to get orthodontic treatment.

2. Boosts your confidence

Many people report a boost to their self-esteem after getting orthodontic treatment, especially those who previously felt self-conscious about their teeth. Feeling happy with your smile can make you feel more confident about yourself in social and professional situations.

3. Easier cleaning and flossing

Even if your reasons for orthodontics are purely cosmetic, the treatments still have positive effects on your oral health. When teeth overlap or are crowded, it’s difficult to reach all of the nooks and ensure they’re being properly cleaned. Straightening your teeth makes it much easier to reach all surfaces when cleaning and flossing.

4. Reduces the risk of dental problems

Being able to brush and floss more effectively reduces the risk of developing plaque, tartar, and cavities. If left unchecked, these can lead to more serious dental problems such as gum disease.

5. Reduces wear and tear on your teeth

Teeth that are misaligned are more prone to wear and tear. Over time, this can lead to chips, cracks, and other damage. By getting orthodontic treatment, you can help protect your teeth from premature wear and tear. Straighter teeth are also less likely to be damaged or fractured in an injury.

6. Reduces stress on your jaw

An improper bite can put undue stress on your jaw. This can create aches and pain in the jaw, neck, and even the head. By improving your jaw alignment, orthodontic treatments are able to alleviate this stress and improve your overall comfort.

7. Prevents TMJ disorder

Problems with alignment can result in TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder is a condition that causes pain and problems with the jaw’s function. Orthodontic treatment to correct alignment and bite issues can help to prevent this condition from developing and keep your jaw healthy.

8. Reduces bruxism

More commonly known as tooth grinding or jaw clenching, bruxism can damage your teeth damage and cause jaw pain and headaches. Orthodontic treatments to realign your teeth and jaw can help reduce bruxism and the likelihood of developing it.

9. Makes it easier to eat

An improper bite can impact your ability to chew food. Achieving a better bite through orthodontic treatment can improve your chewing function and enable you to bite more effectively. This can widen the variety of foods you’re able to eat and improve your overall nutrition.

10. Improves speech impediments

Correcting problems in alignment, such as crowded and twisted teeth, can reduce the severity of some speech impediments, such as a lisp. Orthodontics can even alter the placement of your tongue and improve the clarity of speech.

11. Improves your overall health

There is evidence that suggests that your oral health is linked to your overall health. Therefore, by improving your oral health with orthodontics, you might also be improving your overall health!

12. Change the shape of your face

When intended, orthodontic treatment can have a dramatic effect on the shape of your face. If your teeth are crowded, spaced too far apart, or if you have an overbite or underbite, your face may look imbalanced. By correcting the alignment of your teeth and jaw, orthodontics can create a more symmetrical appearance.

Looking for an orthodontist in Las Vegas?

If you’re interested in improving your smile and your oral health, Aloha Orthodontics can help! We’re committed to providing our patients with the best possible care and we love nothing more than seeing the amazing transformation that orthodontics has on our patients’ lives.

Contact us today to schedule an in-person or online consultation with Dr. Naren Chelian (aka Dr. C). We can’t wait to meet you!