How Braces Improve Your Overall Oral Health

Metal braces and clear braces are known for their ability to straighten crooked teeth and create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. However, the benefits of braces go far beyond cosmetic improvements. Properly aligned teeth can positively impact your oral health, leading to a healthier mouth and body. If you are thinking of getting braces, check out these 5 ways braces will improve your oral health.

The decision to get braces isn’t necessarily one to take lightly. The process takes time, effort, and financial resources. Not only that, but some people avoid getting the orthodontic treatment they need because they worry it will be painful or uncomfortable. To top it off, some patients express concerns that wearing braces will make them self-conscious. And though getting braces is indeed a commitment, we’re here to tell you that there are far more advantages than disadvantages. And the greatest benefit is at the end of your treatment period—you’ll have the smile you wish you had all along.

1. Better Gum Health 

When teeth overlap, it causes plaque buildup in areas that are hard to reach with your toothbrush and dental floss. And when that plaque sits under the gumline, it causes inflammation that can lead to gum disease. Straightened teeth are much easier to fit your floss between, which helps you avoid those unpleasant plaque-induced symptoms. 

2. Decreased Cavity Risk

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 26% of adults have untreated dental cavities. Cavities, also called dental caries, are common dental problems that occur when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that erodes the tooth enamel. This acid can break down the tooth’s structure and create a hole, or cavity, in the tooth. Cavities can form on any tooth surface and may cause symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, biting pain, and visible holes or pits in the teeth. Cavities can lead to further decay, infection, and even tooth loss if left untreated. 

Those hard-to-reach areas resulting from crooked teeth are the perfect places for cavities to form because it’s harder to clean those spots. Braces make it easier to clean your teeth and gums properly.

3. Improved Digestion

Though braces won’t directly improve your digestion, they will indirectly help because misaligned teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly. Misalignment also often creates areas that pack food, which can lead to problems such as indigestion, bloating, and gas. Your new braces will help you avoid these issues by making it easier for you to chew properly. 

4. Less Wear and Tear

Teeth that are crooked or out of alignment can cause a number of dental problems over time, including increased risk of wear, cavities, gum disease, and jaw pain. When teeth are not properly aligned, they can create areas of friction when they come into contact with one another. As a result, this uneven pressure can cause excessive wear and tear on the teeth that end up bearing the most force, which can then result in chips, cracks, or fractures.

Addressing your misaligned bite places the teeth in their ideal positions to make sure chewing forces are evenly distributed. This helps preserve tooth enamel and avoid common symptoms of wear, such as tooth sensitivity.

5. Reduced Effects of Bruxism and TMJ Issues 

Misaligned teeth can contribute to bruxism (clenching and grinding, especially when sleeping) and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues. This constant grinding and clenching can cause the teeth to wear down and become damaged, also leading to tooth sensitivity, chipping, cracking, or even tooth loss. And when jaw pain is not sufficiently treated, it can result in chronic headaches, ear pain, and sleep disturbances. Both metal braces and clear braces create a more even pressure distribution when biting and chewing, reducing the strain on the jaw and TMJ.

Sheppard Family Dental Care can help you achieve straight teeth and better oral health.

Braces are not just an aesthetic treatment for a straighter smile: They can also improve your overall health in various ways. From improving digestion to reducing risk of chips and cracks, avoiding wear and tear on your teeth, and alleviating bruxism and TMJ issues, braces can positively impact your oral health by improving your overall well-being and giving you healthy teeth and gums. Request an appointment today with Sheppard Family Dental Care, your orthodontics partner in Lawton, Oklahoma.