Braces Do More than Just Straighten Teeth

Posted on 22 Apr

in

Orthodontics

By: Ami Inoue, D.D.S., M.S.

When you hear the word “braces,” you probably think of the dental treatment that will straighten teeth. While this is absolutely true, orthodontic treatment with braces also provides other important benefits that are often overlooked.

Properly aligned teeth can help improve appearance and boost a patient’s self-confidence, but did you know misaligned teeth that are not corrected can cause bigger issues over time? Teeth that are aligned properly have a reduced risk of future dental issues and are easier to maintain with your oral hygiene routines of brushing and flossing.

Here are a few of the non-cosmetic benefits that braces provide:

Braces Improve Daily Hygiene Habits

When your teeth are straight, it is easier to clean them because your toothbrush and floss can reach all surfaces better. When teeth are crowded and overlapped, there are often areas that cannot be maintained with daily hygiene habits.

Braces Improve Long-Term Oral Health

Because straight teeth make it easier to brush and floss, they are less prone to excess buildup of calculus deposits and tartar. Excess buildup over time can lead to the gum disease known as periodontitis and result in bone loss around the teeth, possibly even tooth loss in advanced stages of the disease. Teeth that are properly spaced and aligned will help keep your entire mouth healthier.

Braces correct misaligned bites

Braces Correct Misaligned Bites

Correction of an improperly balanced bite is one of the most impactful functions of braces. Properly aligning an overbite, underbite, crossbite, etc., can help prevent future problems like excessive wear on the surfaces of teeth, and in extreme cases, it can prevent tooth loss.

Although less common, straightening teeth and improving a patient’s bite with orthodontic treatment can help set the stage for better results in other procedures such as prosthodontic work involving crowns, veneers, bridges, or implants.

Talk to your dentist about how orthodontic treatment can help improve the overall health of your mouth.