Most people wish they have a straighter set of pearly whites. Reports show that nine in 10 people have maloccluded or slightly misaligned teeth. Some people go through many dental treatments just to achieve a more beautiful and confident smile. They know that by investing in their teeth, they are also investing in their overall health and well-being.
Why Having Straight Teeth Is Actually Beneficial
There are several factors that can cause crooked teeth, including:
- Thumb sucking
- Pacifier use
- Genetics
- Misaligned jaw
- Accidents or injuries
While slightly crooked teeth might seem like a minor issue for some people, there are more benefits to having straight teeth than an improved appearance. Here are some of the best things about having straight teeth:
Prevents Teeth Damage
The uneven pressure makes crooked teeth more likely to get chipped or cracked. When you have straight teeth, the force is evenly distributed, which helps to keep them stronger and more durable.
Reduces Risk Of Gum Disease
People with crooked teeth are also more likely to develop gum disease because it’s harder to clean their teeth properly. When you fail to clean your teeth regularly and properly, your mouth becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to gum disease. Failure to address this issue can even lead to tooth loss.
Improved Digestion
Did you know that your teeth play a role in digestion? When you bite and chew food, your teeth break it into smaller pieces. This makes it easier for your body to digest.
When you have crooked teeth, chew food properly can be challenging. You can end up swallowing bigger pieces of food that your body might need to work double time digesting. This can then lead to indigestion.
Improves Overall Health
Because straight teeth are easier to clean, you’re less likely to develop cavities or other dental problems. This also means you’re less likely to experience pain or discomfort in your mouth.
Studies also show that people with straight teeth are less likely to develop heart disease. Crooked teeth and poor dental health can lead to gum disease, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
Boost Your Confidence and Self-Esteem
One of the best things about having straight teeth is boosting your confidence and self-esteem. When you feel good about your smile, you’re more likely to show it off. You won’t be conscious when talking and smiling, making social interactions more enjoyable.
Having straight teeth can also make you look younger and more attractive. This can give you a boost of confidence that can carry over into other areas of your life. You can have the confidence to socialize, pursue new opportunities, and even take on new challenges.
What Are Your Options In Achieving Straighter Teeth?
Let’s say you’re finally ready to take the plunge and get your teeth fixed. You can start by visiting a cosmetic dentist to discuss your treatment options. They will be able to assess your individual case and recommend the best course of action for you.
If you want to have a straighter, healthier smile, there are a few options available to you. You can straighten your teeth with metal orthodontic braces, clear aligners, or porcelain veneers. Talk to your dentist about which option is right for you.
Orthodontic braces are the most common way to achieve straight teeth. They work by using brackets and wires to slowly move your teeth into the correct position over time. Although time-consuming and costly, this option can be effective and is the usual go-to method recommended by dentists.
Another option is clear aligners, which are popular among adults because they are less visible than metal braces. These work similarly to braces, but clear aligners use a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth instead of brackets and wires.
Porcelain veneers are your third option. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain bonded to your teeth’ front surface. They can be used to improve the appearance of your smile by hiding crooked, chipped, or discolored teeth. Although veneers are more expensive, they offer a quick way to achieve straight teeth and a beautiful smile.
No matter your choice, you must find a reliable dentist to help you achieve your dream smile. Let’s say you are after braces. Find a highly experienced cosmetic dentist near you with a reputable clinic catering to dental patients wanting to correct their crooked smile. With some research, you can find one that suits your needs and is within your budget.
Overall, many benefits come with having straight teeth—better dental health, improved digestion, and increased confidence, to name a few. If you’ve been considering braces or another type of orthodontic treatment, these benefits may convince you that it’s worth taking the plunge!
