Straightening teeth for a more attractive smile is often the first thing that comes to mind when considering braces. Although this is one of the main reasons individuals seek orthodontic treatment, braces provide several advantages beyond improving one’s appearance. We’ll look at several unexpected advantages of braces in this post that go beyond straightening teeth.
1. Better Dental Health
Having correctly aligned teeth improves oral health, one of the braces’ biggest advantages. Food particles and bacteria can accumulate in fissures and misaligned spaces, leading to an increased susceptibility to tooth decay, periodontal disease, and poor breath. Braces provide improved dental hygiene and interproximal cleaning by straightening teeth, which improves oral health in the long run.
2. Improved Digestion and Chewing
Teeth misalignment may cause poor chewing and digestion by altering how we chew our food. This may eventually lead to digestive problems, including acid reflux, indigestion, and even malnourishment. Braces may assist in straightening teeth and providing a better bite, which will facilitate better chewing and food digestion. Better vitamin absorption and general digestive health may result from this.
3. Avoiding Oral Trauma
When the upper and lower teeth do not touch correctly, misaligned teeth might increase the risk of dental injuries. The term malocclusion refers to this misalignment, which may lead to unequal tooth wear and tear and a higher chance of chipping, cracking, or fracturing. The danger of dental damage is greatly decreased when teeth are aligned properly using braces, preserving tooth integrity and averting further dental issues.
4. Reduction of Jaw Pain and Soreness
Misaligned teeth and malocclusion may aggravate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues and cause jaw pain. An excessive amount of tension on the jaw joints and muscles caused by misaligned teeth may result in discomfort, stiffness, and trouble speaking or eating. Braces may help realign the teeth and bite to relieve strain on the jaw joints and reduce pain and discomfort.
5. An Increase in Self-Assurance
This advantage is important even if it may not come as a surprise. A more aligned and straighter grin may significantly boost one’s self-worth and confidence. Many patients with orthodontic treatment say their straighter teeth have made them feel more self-assured and gregarious. This increase in self-assurance may benefit social and professional settings and intimate connections, eventually improving quality of life in general.
Braces and Dental Insurance
For those who are interested in braces, dental insurance may help make orthodontic treatment more accessible and inexpensive. Dental insurance plans differ in what they cover, but many include benefits for orthodontic care, including aligners, braces, and other equipment. But to know exactly what is covered for orthodontic treatment—including any restrictions, waiting periods, or out-of-pocket expenses—you must carefully review your dental insurance policy.
Conclusion
To sum up, braces provide many unexpected advantages that go way beyond just straightening teeth. Braces may benefit dental health and well-being in many ways, from better digestion and oral health to preventing tooth damage and relieving jaw discomfort. A straighter grin may also improve quality of life and lead to new opportunities since it boosts self-confidence. For those who want to benefit from braces, orthodontic therapy may be more easily accessed and affordably priced with the assistance of dental insurance.
To learn more about the advantages of braces and explore your orthodontic treatment options, please consult this link to make an appointment with a local orthodontist.