Most people choose to straighten crowded teeth or correct a bite issue to improve the way their smile looks — however, teeth straightening benefits your health as well as your appearance. If left untreated, malocclusion (dental misalignment) can lead to poor oral health for several reasons.

Here are three ways orthodontic treatment can improve your oral health and help you develop a smile that’s both healthy and beautiful.

1. Straight Teeth are Easier to Care For – Because cleaning teeth that overlap is nearly impossible, plaque and tartar buildup often lead to cavities and threaten the health of gums. When your teeth are straight, it’s easier to keep your smile healthy and free of bacteria build up.
2. Straight Teeth are More Functional – Aligned teeth fit together well and make for optimal chewing surfaces, encouraging proper digestion. Whereas a misaligned bite offers more limited function, and can cause cracking from uneven pressure and friction.
3. Straight Teeth Don’t Contribute to Bruxism (Tooth Grinding) and TMJ-D – When the smile is crooked, the bite fails to align properly, which is uncomfortable during sleep and can cause teeth grinding. This can further increase the chances that teeth crack or break. Additionally, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is often caused by bruxism and can turn into a chronic and painful condition if teeth are left misaligned.

Regardless of your reasons for seeking a straighter smile, the most important thing is that it’s worth it. With so many new orthodontic options available, you are sure to find the teeth-straightening solution that works for you.

About Our Teeth Straightening Solutions

Cumming Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics provides all phases of orthodontic treatment. We offer early intervention for young children at high risk of severe malocclusion, a variety of traditional braces for preteens, and Invisalign® clear braces for older teens and adults.

All our treatment plans are designed to meet your specific needs. Call us today to learn more!