Whenever the idea of “orthodontics” is mentioned, the first thing that typically comes to mind is a straight smile. For many people, this is the only type of benefit they relate to orthodontic treatment. However, there are several benefits that come with orthodontics, both aesthetic and functional. Some of the most common benefits of orthodontic treatment are:
Gives You A Beautiful Smile
A confident smile can light up a room and reflect your personality, so it’s no wonder that many people are interested in orthodontic treatment to achieve their perfect smile. While straightening teeth may seem daunting, orthodontic treatment has come a long way recently and can now be customized to each individual’s needs. As mentioned by the team at Star Orthodontics, by working with an experienced orthodontist, you can ensure that you will receive the best possible care and achieve the smile of your dreams.
Orthodontic treatment works by gently applying pressure to the teeth to move them into the desired position. This process is gradual and individualized, so it is essential to be patient during treatment. In most cases, braces or clear aligners are used to shift the teeth over time gradually. Depending on your condition, treatment may take anywhere from six months to two years. It’s always best to consult with your orthodontist to learn about your unique treatment timeline.
Improves Your Oral Health
Orthodontic treatment is often thought of as a cosmetic procedure, but it can have a significant impact on your oral health. Crooked or misaligned teeth can be more challenging to clean, leading to increased tooth decay and gum disease risk.
In addition, misaligned teeth can put undue stress on your jaw joint, leading to pain and dysfunction. Orthodontic treatment can help to rectify these problems, giving you a healthier mouth and a more confident smile.
Prevents TMJ Disorders
As mentioned by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), TMJ disorders are a common condition that can lead to severe pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
While the leading cause of TMJ disorders is unknown, it is believed that they may be related to a misalignment of the teeth or jaws. Orthodontic treatment can help to correct these misalignments, which may help to prevent TMJ disorders.
In addition, orthodontic treatment can also help improve the jaw function by providing support for the teeth and jaws. By correcting misalignments and improving jaw function, orthodontic treatment can help to prevent TMJ disorders.
Boosts Your Self-esteem
A nice smile is often one of the first things people notice about you. It can impact how others perceive you and how you perceive yourself. If you’re not ok with your smile due to alignment issues, you may feel self-conscious and uncomfortable in social situations. The treatment can help improve the appearance of your teeth and thus boost your self-esteem.
Your orthodontic journey can take several months or even years, but the results can be life changing. With straighter teeth, you can smile confidently, knowing that you look your best. You may also find that you are more outgoing and willing to take new social risks. So if you need a way to boost your self-esteem, consider orthodontic treatment.
Helps With Speaking
For children and adults alike, misaligned teeth can cause problems with speaking. When the teeth are not properly aligned, it can be difficult to produce certain sounds correctly. This can lead to a speech impediment. Orthodontic treatment can help to correct these alignment issues and improve your speech.
Improves Your Bite
Ever wonder how orthodontic treatment helps improve your bite? Here’s a detailed explanation. When your teeth align, they can do their job more effectively. That means they can chew food more efficiently and help you speak more clearly.
Suitable For Patients At Any Age
When choosing to get orthodontic treatment, many assume they’re only for kids and teens. However, this is not the case. Orthodontic treatment can be advantageous for patients of any age.
While it’s true that children and adolescents are still growing and their teeth are more malleable, adults also experience changes in their teeth and jaws over time. These changes can cause misalignments that may benefit from orthodontic treatment.
In addition, many adults are now choosing to get braces or clear aligners to improve their appearance. With so many treatment options offered, there is no reason anyone has to go through life with a smile they’re not happy with.
Types Of Orthodontic Services
Now that you understand the benefits of orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering what types of services are available. Here are a few of the most common types of orthodontic services:
- Traditional Braces: Braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They are made of metal brackets glued to your teeth and connected by wires. The wires apply pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into their proper positions.
- Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are a great alternative to braces. They are made of clear plastic and fit snugly over your teeth. Like braces, they apply pressure to your teeth and gradually move them into their proper positions. However, they are much less noticeable than braces since they are clear.
- Retainers: Retainers are often used after orthodontic treatment to help keep your teeth in their new positions. They are made of metal wires or clear plastic and fit over your teeth like a mouthguard.
Final Thoughts
Orthodontic treatment can offer many benefits, including preventing TMJ disorders, boosting your self-esteem, and improving your speech. It can also help with your bite and be beneficial for patients of any age.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment, be sure to discuss the benefits with your orthodontist. They will be able to help you decide if treatment is right for you and develop a plan that meets your unique needs.