Orthodontic Treatment Fixes More than just Aesthetics

The saying “short term pain for long term gain” is especially true with orthodontic treatment. Ask anyone who’s had braces in the past and they’ll be able to confirm. However, the long term gain you receive from powering through an arduous orthodontic treatment period reaches far beyond having straighter teeth. It can go on to ensure that you don’t develop more serious issues down the line, and can also help boost your self confidence.

Crowding and Spacing

Orthodontics are used to treat, amoung many other things, an uneven spacing of teeth. You’ve likely heard of terms such as overbite and underbite, or perhaps you know of someone who has protruding upper teeth. Besides the obvious aesthetic benefit of getting these problems corrected, there are a whole host of other issues that are also treated. An overbite or underbite can cause disfiguration of facial bones or muscles, which can start to cause much more serious problems with breathing or trouble swallowing. Speech can also become difficult if left untreated.

Extra or Missing Teeth

Braces are great for bringing teeth together in two nice straight lines. However, realigning extra teeth serves many other purposes. Proper teeth alignment will allow for a better jaw alignment as well, which again extends to issues like improper chewing or breathing. Missing teeth due to injury or infection can also be treated with orthodontics. Gaps left by missing teeth should be corrected to avoid further infection. Teeth that are too small or too large can cause food debris to get caught more easily, and can lead to tooth decay or gum disease. Orthodontics help right the issue right away and can prevent the need for a root canal or an implant later.

Self Image

Straighter teeth can help boost one’s mental health and positivity in daily life. Mental health has become increasingly recognized as an important aspect of overall well being. How one views him or herself is very important in determining how they carry out daily activities and work. Straighter teeth can give you more confidence and help you nail that interview or presentation. The psychological benefits associated with straighter teeth are often worth it alone for many people.

Orthodontic treatment has more than the obvious benefit of having straighter teeth. The fact is that crooked teeth are usually a cover up for more serious potential issues. Getting these problems sorted early is better for both your appearance and your health. Centennial Smiles is always happy to take on new clients! Visit us today or set up an appointment at (587) 317-7959.