If you’ve wanted to straighten your smile or a dentist has suggested orthodontics to you in the past, you may be considering braces. While braces can initially be expensive, their benefits tend to be well worth the money in the long run.
One benefit of braces is a confidence boost. Some people may be self-conscious about having a crooked smile or an overbite. Your anxiety and stress level may be lower when you feel like you don’t have to hide your smile anymore. If you have a lisp or speech impediment, braces may also be a good option to explore. Those with speech impediments may find some relief after receiving braces.
Another benefit is bone loss prevention. If your teeth overlap, bacteria can build up and eat away at the bones in your mouth and jaw. On the subject of bacteria, braces can prevent gum disease and cavities by fixing misalignments where germs can fester. Strangely enough, there is also a psychological component to having braces. When someone has braces, they are more likely to participate in better oral health practices like twice daily brushing, regular flossing, and regular dental checkups. This can prevent periodontal disease, bad breath, and yellowing teeth.
Do you have upper teeth that protrude from your mouth? Braces may be a good option for you if you play sports or do intense physical activity. Protruding upper teeth tend to be more prone to chipping and damage in accidents. If you feel like you have a bad bite, also known as a jaw misalignment, orthodontic care might help alleviate some of these symptoms. Bad bites can make your jaw very tired and could cause you to lose your teeth over time. It can also cause pain and difficulty eating.
Braces can also promote healthy digestion. Healthier teeth can chew food into smaller pieces and help you consume your food more thoroughly. Patients with TMJ may also benefit from receiving braces. TMJ, also known as temporomandibular joint pain can cause pain and joint misalignment in the jaw. Getting braces can help relieve TMJ pressure and serve as a position adjustment for your jaw. Bruxism, a medical term for chronic teeth grinding, may also be relieved by receiving braces. Patients with crooked teeth may not even notice that they’re grinding their teeth due to misalignment.
Typical orthodontic treatment lasts somewhere between one and three years, with some people having to wear permanent retainers to keep the results of the braces. It’s important to follow the guidelines that your orthodontist gives you in order to ensure the best results from your treatments. This means brushing your teeth frequently, going to regular checkups, flossing and picking your teeth to prevent food from getting stuck, and using mouthwash.
Braces can have a variety of health benefits, which makes the cost worth it. Your oral health affects your overall health in many ways, so care and upkeep is crucial. Call Hallgren Orthodontics today to discuss orthodontic care that may work for you.