Whether you’re a teen or an adult, it’s never too early or late to invest in a straighter smile. While this may seem like a solely cosmetic treatment, there are several mental and oral health benefits to aligning your smile and bite. Whether you opt to do this using traditional metal braces or modern Invisalign clear aligners, you won’t regret your investment in your health! Read on to learn about four unexpected benefits of a straighter smile.
1. Improved Digestion
Straight teeth have been connected to better digestion due to their ability to more efficiently and effectively being able to break down food. This improved chewing ability leads to the production of more saliva as well, which is crucial in the neutralization of acids released by harmful oral bacteria, helping prevent common oral health problems like cavities and gum disease. Saliva production and having an even bite are also critical in digestion, as they help start the process of breaking down the food by allowing it to easily move into the stomach and be absorbed by cells in the body!
2. Easier Brushing & Flossing
Crooked and crowded teeth can make brushing and flossing less effective by creating hard-to-reach nooks and crevices for food debris to become trapped in. With teeth that are perfectly aligned side-by-side, threading floss through them will be much easier. Additionally, the time saved during your morning and nightly oral hygiene routine makes it easier to keep up with!
3. Lower Risk of Dental Damage
One aspect of straightening teeth that many people don’t consider is that an aligned smile makes you less likely to experience broken, chipped, or cracked teeth. This is because teeth that protrude out or are crooked are at a higher likelihood of becoming damaged if you accidentally fall or experience oral trauma. This helps you save money by avoiding emergency dental visits as well as unwelcome stress.
4. Boosted Self-Confidence
Finally, one of the greatest benefits of investing in orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners is the self-esteem boost that many people experience after straightening their smile. Crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth often cause self-consciousness and a lack of confidence, which can cause people to hide their smiles behind their hand or even avoid going out and spending time with friends and family.
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji is a general dentist who has completed advanced specialized training in orthodontics, allowing him to offer both traditional braces as well as Invisalign clear aligners. Over his 10 years of experience, he has helped hundreds of patients straighten their smiles and boost their confidence, allowing them to get the most out of life. To schedule a consultation and learn whether you’re a good candidate for orthodontics, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114.