When we think of orthodontic treatment, a lot of the time, people think about hopping in a chair for braces to straighten their teeth to improve their smile. While a straight and beautiful smile is certainly a plus, orthodontic treatment accomplishes much more than enhancement of appearance. It can be integral to improving your overall oral health, and oral health is important to your overall well-being throughout life. If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Newmarket, it’s helpful to first understand what orthodontic care can really do for you.
Let’s look into how orthodontic treatment can also help improve your oral health and why it should be considered.
What is Orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment includes the use of orthodontic devices such as braces, clear aligners, or retainers to fix poor alignment of teeth and jaws. Poor alignment of teeth and jaws is referred to as malocclusion. Malocclusion can cause issues with the appearance and function of your teeth. Orthodontists are dentists who are trained uniquely to diagnose, treat and alleviate problems of this nature. After all, the benefits of orthodontic treatment go far beyond cosmetics. They include improved cleaning, less risk of cavities, healthier gums, better chewing, and even more comfort while speaking and eating.
Why Oral Health Matters Beyond Just Looking Good?
You may be asking, other than boosting confidence, why should I want straight teeth anyway? Well, how your teeth line up is differentially important for how easy it is to keep your mouth clean.
- Crowded or crooked teeth make it difficult to brush and floss, which can lead to plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, and when it’s on your teeth, you may end up developing tooth decay (cavities) as well as gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis).
- Misaligned teeth affect your oral hygiene. Misaligned teeth can also cause bad breath and infections.
- Untreated gum disease can cause tooth loss over time, which affects your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
Therefore, orthodontic treatment is about more than just cosmetics; it is about protecting your oral health in the future. If you’re exploring options for treatment outside Newmarket, orthodontist services in Aurora are also something you can consider, depending on where you’re located.
How orthodontic treatment helps improve oral health
1. Makes Cleaning Easier and Effective
One of the major benefits of straightening your teeth is that it becomes easier to brush and floss. When your teeth are straight, nothing overlaps or touches your other teeth too much, so brushes and floss can get to those surfaces easier and more effectively, which reduces plaque buildup and the risks for cavities and gum disease.
2. Prevents tooth wear and damage
If your teeth are not aligned properly, then some teeth are absorbing more pressure from biting and chewing. This can result in premature wear, cracks, or chips from the unnecessary pressure in uneven areas.
3. Improves Jaw Function and Reduces Pain
Malocclusion can sometimes cause jaw pain or discomfort, including problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull. Misaligned teeth or jaws can lead to muscle strain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. By correcting your bite, orthodontic treatment can improve jaw alignment and reduce these issues, making daily activities like eating and speaking more comfortable.
4. Reduces the Risk of Gum Disease
Crowded or overlapping teeth can create tight spaces where food particles and bacteria easily get trapped. These areas are hard to clean and become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of gum inflammation and infection. Straight teeth allow the gums to fit more securely around them, helping prevent gum disease.
5. Enhances Speech and Digestion
Improper alignment can sometimes affect your speech, causing issues like lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Correcting your teeth and jaw position improves speech clarity. Plus, with a better bite, your chewing becomes more efficient, which helps in breaking down food properly and aids digestion.
6. Boosts Self-Confidence and Mental Health
While this isn’t a direct health benefit, it’s important to mention that feeling good about your smile can significantly improve your self-esteem and social interactions. A confident smile encourages better communication and overall happiness, which are important for mental well-being.
If you’re curious about different types of care, you can always look up an Orthodontic treatments list to see the wide range of solutions available today — from metal braces to clear aligners, expanders, and retainers.
When Should You Consider Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is beneficial for people of all ages. While it’s most commonly started during the teenage years, many adults also seek treatment to fix long-standing issues or improve their oral health. The earlier you address misalignment problems, the easier it is to prevent complications.
If you notice crooked teeth, difficulty biting, speech problems, or jaw discomfort, it’s a good idea to consult an orthodontist. They will assess your teeth and jaws and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.
Transform Your Smile, Transform Your Life
Orthodontic treatment is much more than just a cosmetic procedure. It plays a vital role in maintaining healthy teeth, gums, and jaws. By straightening your teeth and correcting your bite, orthodontics can prevent serious dental problems, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life.
If you’re thinking about improving your oral health and want a smile that not only looks great but feels great too, it’s time to take the next step. At Newmarket Orthodontics, our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile through personalized orthodontic care.
Ready to take the first step toward better oral health and a brighter smile? Contact Newmarket Orthodontics today for a consultation and discover how orthodontic treatment can transform your life!