Teeth straightening is a procedure that can correct misalignments like crooked teeth and overcrowded teeth. It can also help with problems like poor chewing and a bad bite.
Free orthodontic treatment is available on the NHS for children and teens but adults will need to seek private options. There are many different methods to choose from ranging from traditional metal braces to clear aligners.
1. Aesthetics
The main reason people choose to get their teeth straightened is because they want to improve the aesthetics of their smile. Straighter, more uniform teeth make your face appear more balanced and attractive, and can enhance the definition of your jawline.
Crooked teeth can also make your smile look less youthful, and can lead to a variety of cosmetic issues such as chipped teeth, uneven or crowded teeth and a bad bite (dentists call this malocclusion). If left untreated, these problems can increase the risk of future oral health issues like gum disease or tooth decay.
Another benefit of getting your teeth straightened is that it can help to improve your oral hygiene, as crowded and misaligned teeth are harder to clean than straighter ones. This is because they are more difficult to floss and brush effectively, resulting in food particles becoming trapped and leading to plaque and tartar build-up. Additionally, protruding or crowded teeth are more likely to sustain damage if they are hit against or chewed on by other objects. Straighter teeth are also more efficient at chewing food, meaning that your body can digest foods more quickly and efficiently.
2. Health
A straight smile is better for your dental and overall health. Crooked teeth have a tendency to collect bacteria that can then travel through the gum tissue and enter the bloodstream which increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke and more. Straight teeth are more easily cleaned, allowing you to practice effective oral hygiene to remove bacteria before it has the chance to cause an infection.
Teeth that protrude or are misaligned put extra strain on your chewing muscles and jaw bones causing them to wear down faster and can also lead to gum diseases. Straightening your teeth reduces the daily pressure on your teeth and gums, keeping them strong, healthy and preventing future crooked or misaligned teeth.
Uneven bites can be the cause of headaches, neck pain or even bruxism (teeth grinding). Teeth straightening will balance the force and eliminate these issues to make chewing easier which is beneficial to your digestive system as food is more thoroughly chewed and broken down before it is swallowed. This also makes it easier to eat all types of foods, helping you keep a balanced diet.
3. Self-confidence
Achieving a straight smile with braces or clear aligners is not only a great way to improve the look of your teeth, but it can also boost your self-confidence. According to a study, people with straight teeth are perceived as being happier and more successful.
Crooked teeth are a common problem that can affect the health and appearance of your smile. This condition can impact your confidence and even your ability to speak clearly and chew food. The nooks and crannies of misaligned teeth can be difficult to clean properly, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Teeth straightening is a long-term treatment that can correct misalignments in your teeth, leading to better oral hygiene and improved overall physical health.
With a confident smile, you can make a positive impression on the people you meet, from interviewers at work to potential dating partners. Having straight teeth can help you feel more comfortable in social situations and can even help you appear more competent in meetings. This can be a significant benefit if you’re an adult who’s been dealing with a crooked smile for much of your life.
4. Chewing
If you have crooked teeth or an uneven bite, chewing can put a lot of pressure on your jaw and chewing muscles. This can cause them to wear down, leading to problems like sensitivity and cracked or chipped teeth. Straightening can reduce this pressure and prevent your teeth from becoming worn down.
Gaps between your teeth can hide food particles that mix with bacteria to create plaque. Over time, plaque can harden into tartar that irritates your gums and causes tooth loss if left untreated. Straightening your teeth can make it easier to brush and floss, preventing plaque build-up that can lead to gum disease.
An uneven bite can also cause you to chew differently and can lead to digestive issues. Straightening your teeth can close an open bite and help you eat the healthy foods you need without restriction. It can also help you breathe more easily, reducing symptoms of snoring and sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
5. Sleep
Sleeping well is a major component of your physical and mental health. Unfortunately, sleep can be disrupted if you have crooked teeth that prevent you from breathing properly at night. Studies have shown that there is a link between misaligned teeth and sleep apnea. This is because crooked teeth and a small jaw can restrict the airway, resulting in snoring and sleep apnea. Teeth straightening will help to correct this by ensuring that your jaw sits properly, making it easier to breathe and reduce the risk of sleep apnea.
A crooked bite can also cause bruxism, which is the grinding of your teeth at night. This can wear down your teeth and lead to aches and pains in the jaw and head. In addition, it can also lead to a poor diet as you are likely to avoid certain foods that require chewing. Teeth straightening will help to close your bite and allow you to enjoy a healthy diet again.
These are just a few of the many benefits of teeth straightening. If you are considering this treatment, contact Stellar Orthodontics for more information.