Orthodontics may at first seem very intimidating due to many factors such as social pressure, thoughts of metal wire in your mouth, or changing your smile altogether. But we’re here to tell you that orthodontics can help you get the straighter smile you need and want. Braces not only straighten your teeth but can benefit your oral health as well. You are not alone when it comes to seeking for a straighter smile; studies have found that nearly 75 percent of people need some type of orthodontic care. Read on to learn more about how orthodontics can help you and your smile.
Most Common Orthodontic Problems
There are the obvious problems such as gaps, spacing or crooked teeth, and then there issues related to baby teeth and genetics. Most of these orthodontic misalignments are called malocclusions; these include missing teeth, extra teeth (supernumerary teeth), crowded teeth (or protruded teeth) and problems that come on early. These can include the retention of teeth (baby teeth that don’t appear for over a year), loss of baby teeth prematurely, or thumb- or finger-sucking.
Other problems that can cause the need for dental braces include accidents resulting in teeth getting knocked out of place or the loss of teeth. Because of the empty space, this can cause teeth to shift out of place. Dental diseases can be a result of misaligned teeth, causing further damage that could be prevented with the placement of braces.
Not Only Cosmetic Benefits but Health Benefits
There are many benefits to getting braces! It can not only boost your self-confidence but help your oral health immensely. Because of overlapping/missing teeth, this leaves room for dental problems like periodontal disease to occur, tooth enamel erosion, stress on your gum tissue or bone, tooth decay and more.
With straightened teeth, this will fix or prevent these problems, improving your chewing and speaking. Braces can also help with the realignment of your jaw and prevent TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders).
The benefits of braces cosmetically is one of the largest factors in helping convince patients to get braces but it’s important to consider the health benefits of having orthodontic care. Not only will it assist your oral care but your health care as well. According to studies, preventing periodontal disease can help you avoid heart disease, diabetes, strokes, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.
If you would like to learn more about how braces can benefit your smile, feel free to contact our office for more information or schedule a consultation to see which orthodontic treatment is best for you and your smile. We’ll be happy to help, so give us a call today!