Health Benefits of a Straighter Smile
Eagan, MN – Have you been hiding your less than straight smile for a while, afraid to smile big out of fear of embarrassment? But did you know your crooked or gapped grin may be doing more harm than just to your self-esteem?
“A straight smile isn’t just more aesthetically pleasing,” says your Eagan Invisalign provider. “A misaligned bite can create a host of other problems that can have you in and out of your dentist’s office. From tooth decay to gum disease to head and neck pain, undergoing orthodontic treatment can do more than just give you a smile makeover, it can also make over your life.”
Crowded teeth are harder to keep clean because it’s harder for the toothbrush and floss to reach into these areas. Plaque can then build up and decay can set in.
Crowded teeth or teeth spaced too far apart are also more susceptible to gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria in the mouth that creates inflamed, irritated gums. Over time, the gums become sore, can bleed, and advanced gum disease can lead to tooth and bone loss.
“Gum disease is very serious,” says your doctor. “People with gum disease are at a higher risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. So taking care of your misaligned teeth can actually impact your overall health, too.”
Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments make it easier to care for your teeth, but they also ensure your bite functions properly. Do you experience a lot of pain in the jaw, neck or head? You may not realize it, but this could be associated with your misaligned teeth.
“A bad bite can make your bite inefficient, causing extra wear and tear on the enamel of your teeth,” says your doctor. “This can lead to teeth breaking, chipping and cracking. But the excessive pressure a bad bite also creates pain in the jaw, which can manifest itself as head or neck pain.”
Additionally, your mouth could be more at risk for dental injuries. Teeth that are crowded or that stick out are more likely to get damaged in the event of an accident or injury.
The clear aligners used during Invisalign treatment make it easier than ever to get that straight, perfectly functioning smile. They are invisible and removable, so they have minimal impact on your everyday life. The average Invisalign case lasts between 8 months and a year, so in as little as 12 months, you could have the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Straight teeth collect less plaque because they are easier to keep clean, are less prone to gum disease with a proper oral care routine, and are less prone to cause injury or additional pain. Not only that, they’ll improve your self-esteem and help you tackle the world with confidence.
If you’re ready to see what the power of a straighter smile can do for you, contact an ORTHODONTIST today.
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