Is having a straight smile on your Christmas wishlist? When most patients think of braces or Invisalign treatment, they picture the end result: a beautiful, healthy, straight smile. But what most patients aren’t aware of are the considerable benefits that having a set of straight teeth can have for your overall oral health. From increased confidence to reduced risk of oral health concerns like cavities or enamel breakdown, here are five benefits of braces and Invisalign that will improve your life in the long term.
#1: Improved Oral Hygiene
Put simply, straight teeth are easier to clean. Despite your best efforts at brushing and flossing, patients with misaligned teeth can miss hard-to-reach areas in the mouth, which can allow bad bacteria, plaque, and tartar to build up over time. These substances can wreak havoc on your oral health and hygiene, causing a range of problems from bad breath and cavities to gum disease and even tooth decay.
When your teeth are aligned properly, however, there are fewer hard-to-reach areas where plaque and tartar can accumulate. This reduces your risk of developing cavities and other complex oral health conditions, making your smile happier and healthier – and your dentist will thank you, too!
#2: Better Digestion
We all know that the digestive process starts in the mouth when you begin chewing your food. Improper alignment can make chewing difficult, however, which can make it harder to break down your favorite lunch or dinner effectively. Over time, this can lead to digestive issues, as larger food particles are harder to break down.
One of the benefits of braces and Invisalign treatment is that it helps shift your teeth and bite in line, making it easier and more comfortable to chew your food. At the end of the day, orthodontic treatment can lead to improvements in your gastrointestinal health, which may surprise you!
#3: Reduced Wear & Tear
Misaligned teeth often result in uneven wear and tear, leading to a host of dental problems. When teeth do not align properly, they can create excessive pressure on certain areas, accelerating enamel erosion and increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity and fractures – ouch!
By realigning the teeth, orthodontics helps distribute bite forces more evenly across all teeth, protecting them from excessive wear. This not only preserves the structural integrity of the teeth but also prevents future dental complications related to uneven wear.
#4: Improved Speech
The alignment of your teeth is integral to clear speech. Misalignments can lead to speech impediments or difficulties in articulating certain sounds. Correcting these misalignments through orthodontic treatment often results in notable improvements in speech clarity.
This improvement goes beyond mere aesthetics; it boosts communication skills and confidence, significantly impacting social interactions and self-esteem.
#5: Boost In Confidence & Self-Esteem
Last but certainly not least is the confidence-boosting effects that orthodontic treatment can give patients who undergo the process. Misaligned teeth, gaps, or bad bites can lead to aesthetic issues that can make patients feel self-conscious about their smiles. As a result, you might hide your happiness or stop yourself from laughing in groups of people to avoid showing off your teeth.
Straightening your teeth through orthodontic treatment can have a profound impact on your self-esteem, improving your social interactions and making important life events more fulfilling and enjoyable.
Your Treatment Options
Now that you know the benefits of a straight smile, your next step is to determine which treatment is right for you. At Southington Orthodontics, we offer both braces and Invisalign treatment to accommodate a wide range of needs and preferences.
Metal Braces
As the traditional option for orthodontic treatment, metal braces are an excellent choice for patients of all ages. Using a system of brackets and wires, this fixed treatment option works 24/7 to straighten your smile. Depending on your needs, we may also use elastic bands to promote a more functional bite.
When you opt for metal braces, you’ll visit our office once every 4-12 weeks for check-up appointments. During this time, we’ll ensure your treatment plan is on track and make adjustments to your wires as needed. Patients typically spend an average of 12 months to 24 months in braces and can expect to wear a retainer following treatment to maintain their beautiful new smiles.
Clear Braces
Like metal braces, clear braces consist of metal brackets that are attached to each tooth and connected by a thin wire. What makes them different, however, is that we use tooth-colored brackets to help them blend into the natural color and appearance of your teeth.
Clear braces are an excellent option for patients who are more concerned with the look of metal braces and who want a more discreet treatment option.
Spark Clear Aligners
As one of our most popular options, Spark clear aligners are a nearly invisible treatment option. Using clear, plastic aligner trays that you change out every few weeks, these trays progressively shift your teeth in line over the course of 12 to 18 months on average. You’ll need to wear these aligner trays for 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink, and brush your teeth.
This alternative to traditional metal braces often works best for teens or adults who are looking for a more discreet treatment option. Because the trays are removable, this treatment plan requires a responsible individual who is willing to wear them as instructed.
Find Out Which Treatment Is Right for You
At Southington Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves the benefits of a straight smile. Whether you’re interested in traditional metal braces or Spark clear aligners, it’s our goal to give you the best results possible. If you’re ready to get started, call our office in Southington to find out which treatment is right for you!
