Having straight teeth is about more than just having a beautiful smile. When your teeth line up the way they should, you are also more likely to enjoy better oral and overall health, too. Keep reading to find out more — and how Invisalign in Ponte Vedra Beach can help.
4 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth
Because your teeth don’t exist in a vacuum, what goes on in your mouth can significantly affect your overall health. We’ve listed the top 4 health benefits of braces below!
#1: Improved Oral Hygiene
It’s not easy to work dental floss between crowded teeth — you may just feel like you’re damaging your fingers or gum tissue in the process. When your teeth are side by side like they should be, it’s easier to gently work the floss around them. Flossing is an integral aspect of oral hygiene, as it helps to prevent cavities and gum disease. And, considering the significant health effects of gum disease (like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and others), that can have a big impact on your overall health.
#2: Better Jaw Health
The TMJ is the joint that helps you eat and speak with ease. When your upper and lower jaw do not fit together properly, your TMJ receives undue pressure every time you open and close your mouth. Over time, it can lead to the painful condition known as TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction). TMD is associated with jaw clicking, popping, the sensation of lock jaw, and other bothersome side effects.
#3: Stop Teeth Grinding
When your teeth do not line up the way they should, you are also more likely to grind them at night. The condition known as bruxism can lead to weak and worn tooth enamel, an increased risk of cavities, and jaw pain.
#4: Self Confidence
Here’s where the aesthetics come into play. When your smile looks beautiful, you won’t want want to hide it — and the health benefits of smiling are significant! From boosting endorphins to reducing stress, flashing those pearly whites just makes you feel better. And that’s something you can’t argue with.
Invisalign: A Clear Solution
Now that you know about the health benefits of straight teeth, you may be wondering what your options are for aligning your bite. Invisalign is a wonderful option for older teens and adults — it’s clear braces that you can remove to eat and drink and clean your teeth with ease.
The Invisalign treatment is composed of a series of aligners made out of clear, sturdy plastic. Each aligner is customized to fit your teeth as the treatment progresses. Advance to the next one in the series after one to two weeks and, after about a year on average, you will be smiling with full confidence (and health)!
About the Authors
Dr. Kristopher R. Harth and Dr. Eric L. Townsend are general dentists providing comprehensive dental treatments, including Invisalign clear braces. To learn more about their services or to schedule an appointment, you are invited to contact your dentist in Ponte Vedra Beach at 904-285-7711.