It is far easier to associate orthodontic treatments with improving the look of a smile than it is to see how the services of an orthodontist Stoke-on-Trent can be used to better protect dental, physical and mental health.
In a survey carried out in the UK, 50 percent of adult respondents cited wanting to improve their appearance as one of the top considerations for straightening their teeth. While it is always a worthy pursuit to enhance the appearance of a smile, it is particularly a good idea to invest in orthodontic treatment if the misalignment of your teeth is preventing you from maintaining good oral hygiene and optimal mouth function.
Teeth straightening treatments are beneficial to overall health in a number of ways.
Ways orthodontics can protect overall health
The primary role of teeth straightening treatments is two-fold: to improve dental function and health. Redirecting crooked, protruding or overcrowded teeth into correct positions improves the way teeth should function when biting or chewing food. Incorrect teeth alignment also impacts the way the mouth cleaning process.
Teeth, in their natural positions, do not get in the way of toothbrush bristles doing their job well. Crooked teeth and overcrowding create areas in the mouth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach, creating environments for disease-causing bacteria to hide and thrive. It is the overwhelming presence of these types of bacteria that are responsible for undesirable issues such as gum disease and cavities.
In addition to improving the way teeth are cleaned, orthodontics also helps in the relief of dental pain. There are a number of causes of dental pain including the strain of jaw muscles and jaw joint problems. Orthodontic treatments have been found to be effective in correcting these issues.
Another dental health-related benefit of teeth straightening is that teeth integrity is protected. Dental misalignment can place undue stress on certain teeth during masticatory function. These affected teeth are at increased risk of the pressures of wear and tear.
In improving dental health, orthodontics is also able to serve the physical body. Improving masticatory function facilitates effective digestion. By grinding the food down into minuscule pieces, the digestive process is made more efficient for better absorption of much-needed nutrients, thereby strengthening body function. A strong physical body is also able to defend itself against infections and other diseases.
Good oral hygiene also plays a role in protecting the physical body. Good oral hygiene keeps the presence of bad bacteria in the mouth under control. This means that when oral hygiene is properly maintained, this reduces the likelihood of bad bacteria entering the bloodstream and clogging up veins and blood vessels near the heart or triggering inflammatory conditions in the lungs.
Then there is the well-known impact on smiles. Investing in orthodontics to enhance dental appearance boosts mental health. A pleasing smile is a major source of confidence and it is a confidence that holds the key to seizing opportunities to advance in life. An attractive smile improves your chances of being hired, of making friends and finding love.
Considering all of the above, there is every reason to consider teeth straightening treatments for better health and wellbeing.