Monday, April 25, 2011

Benefits of Orthodontics


A smile you can be proud of is an obvious benefit of orthodontic treatment. People who are happy with their smile are more confident with themselves and with the people around them. It is no wonder that parents want to provide their children with the best chances of success and that adults seek treatment for personal and business reasons.
But beyond the cosmetic advantages of straight teeth, there are important medical benefits as well.
Properly aligned teeth and jaws may alleviate or prevent physical health problems. Straight teeth are less prone to decay, develop periodontal (gum) disease and decrease risk of injury. When teeth are properly aligned, it is easier to keep them clean. Straight teeth collect less plaque which is a risk factor for periodontal disease. Protruding upper teeth are more likely to be broken in an accident, so repositioning and aligning them with other teeth can result in a decreased risk for fracture.
Untreated orthodontic problems may lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease and digestive difficulties. Misaligned teeth can also cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing and stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth. In extreme cases, misalignment of the jaw joints can result, sometimes leading to chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck. Early prevention may be less costly than the dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.
So, orthodontic treatment can mean more than just a great smile. And that’s something you can smile about!