While it’s true that braces are often associated with the teenage years, it’s important to note that adults may also require them. Initially, it may not seem like a desirable experience, but the ultimate outcome of having straight, white, and beautiful teeth is well worth it.
When most people think of braces, the first thing that comes to mind is a straight, beautiful smile. While it’s true that braces can give you a great smile, the benefits of braces go beyond just aesthetics. In fact, braces can have a significant impact on your overall oral health and well-being.
In this article, we will discuss some of the benefits of braces, other than a beautiful smile:
1. Ensuring a lifelong healthy environment for your mouth
One of the lesser-known benefits of braces is the creation of a healthier oral environment for life. When teeth are correctly aligned, they are easier to keep clean, making it simpler to prevent tooth decay. Misaligned teeth create gaps where food particles, plaque, and tartar can accumulate, and it can be challenging to brush and floss in these tight spaces. When braces regulate the gaps between teeth, enamel is less likely to wear away over time, and harmful bacteria and tartar won’t break off and enter the bloodstream, leading to severe health problems.
2. Preventing gum disease
Braces can reduce the likelihood of gum disease. When there are significant gaps between teeth, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria that thrive in hard-to-reach areas, leading to a proliferation of harmful bacteria that can quickly cause gum disease.
As oral health declines, so does overall health, potentially leading to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, kidney disease, asthma, osteoporosis, and cancer. When viewed from this perspective, braces become less of an inconvenience and more of an essential investment in one’s overall well-being.
Gum disease is a common problem in Australia, with over 22% of adults suffering from moderate to severe gum disease. By straightening your teeth with braces, you can make it easier to clean your teeth properly. This can help prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria, reducing your risk of gum disease.
3. Better digestion
Correcting an inconsistent bite with braces can also lead to better digestion. When you’re able to bite and chew your food correctly, digestion is more natural, and you get all the nutrients you need to thrive. Failure to chew your food thoroughly can lead to poor health outcomes as the food is not adequately crushed and digested. This can lead to stomach and gut problems down the line.
4. Improving Bite Function
An inconsistent bite can cause speech impediments because you need to press your tongue to your teeth to pronounce certain sounds. While braces may be uncomfortable and embarrassing for teenagers, they can correct speech impediments and improve self-confidence.
When your teeth are crooked or misaligned, it can cause issues with your bite. This can lead to problems such as jaw pain, headaches, and even difficulty chewing. Braces can correct these issues, making it easier to eat and speak properly.
According to the Australian Dental Association, orthodontic treatment can help with a variety of bite problems, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. These bite issues can cause a range of dental problems, including wear and tear on teeth, gum disease, and tooth decay.
5. Improved jaw health
Furthermore, braces can help realign a misaligned jaw, which can be painful and cause recurring headaches, earaches, and TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder causes your face, jaw, and ears to ache and makes chewing difficult. While braces can be uncomfortable as they realign the jaw, the long-term benefits are worth it.
When your teeth are misaligned, it can put pressure on your jaw, leading to jaw pain and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ disorder can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Braces can help to correct these issues, reducing the pressure on your jaw and improving your jaw health.
6. Building your self-esteem
Another significant advantage of braces is the improvement in facial appearance, particularly for individuals with overbites. Overbites can cause upper lips to protrude and cheeks to appear sunken when the jaw and teeth do not fit together correctly. Braces can also improve self-esteem for those who have hidden their teeth due to their unsightliness. The day you get your braces off, and your beautiful smile shines brightly, is an incredible feeling.
7. Improved Speech
When your teeth are misaligned, it can affect your speech. You may find it difficult to pronounce certain words or sounds, leading to a lack of confidence in your speech. Braces can help to correct these issues, making it easier to speak properly and clearly.
According to the Australian Society of Orthodontists, orthodontic treatment can help with a variety of speech issues, including lisps, slurring, and difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
8. Reduced Risk of Tooth Decay
Crooked or crowded teeth can make it difficult to clean your teeth properly, leading to a buildup of plaque and bacteria. This can increase your risk of tooth decay and cavities. By straightening your teeth with braces, you can make it easier to clean your teeth properly, reducing your risk of tooth decay.
According to the Australian Dental Association, tooth decay is a common problem in Australia, with over 90% of adults having at least one cavity. Braces can help to reduce your risk of tooth decay by making it easier to clean your teeth properly.
9. Improved Self-Confidence
While the physical benefits of braces are important, it’s also important to consider the psychological benefits. Many people with crooked or misaligned teeth feel self-conscious about their smile. This can lead to a lack of confidence and self-esteem, affecting various aspects of their life, including social interactions and career prospects.
By straightening their teeth with braces, individuals can improve their self-confidence and self-esteem. They can feel more comfortable in social situations, leading to improved relationships and career prospects.
In conclusion, braces offer numerous benefits beyond just providing a beautiful smile. They can create a healthier oral environment, reduce the likelihood of gum disease, improve digestion, correct speech impediments, realign the jaw, and boost self-esteem. Investing in braces may be uncomfortable and embarrassing at first, but the long-term benefits are undeniable. By properly aligning teeth, braces can significantly improve overall health and well-being.
Don’t let misaligned teeth affect your confidence and oral health any longer! Schedule a consultation at Your Healthy Smile today and discover how our expert orthodontic treatment can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Take the first step towards a healthier and happier you by booking your appointment now.