Most people choose to undergo orthodontic treatment for aesthetic reasons. However, there are some health benefits to having straight teeth, too! Here, our Surrey orthodontists explain what they are.
While having straight teeth can contribute to a having a more attractive smile, it also has a positive impact on your overall health.
Straight teeth last longer than crooked ones do.
Biting and chewing create significant pressure, and when teeth are uneven, that pressure is not evenly distributed. As a result, certain teeth and areas of your mouth are subjected to more pressure and stress than they should be. This can lead to chipped teeth, notching at the gum line, and fractures along the edges of the teeth.
This, in turn, weakens your teeth, and makes them more susceptible to gum disease and decay.
Straight teeth reduce the risk of jaw problems.
Uneven teeth put a strain on the jaw joints as well. The temporomandibular joints are the hinge joints that connect your jaw to your skull. When these joints are strained by an uneven bite, it can result in jaw pain, headaches, earaches, dizziness, or ringing in the ears.
Straight teeth make preventing periodontal disease and cavities easier.
Straight teeth are simply easier to clean than crooked ones. Uneven teeth have deeper, more abundant crevices in which bacteria and plaque can build up, and these areas can be quite difficult to access with a toothbrush and floss.
As a result, periodontal disease and cavities can form in these areas relatively unchecked, despite your best efforts at oral hygiene.