Orthodontic
devices straighten teeth. But that's not all they do. Even though you
might choose braces for yourself (or your child) as a way to correct
crooked teeth, the orthodontic appliance can provide you with an
overall healthier mouth. Take a look at the benefits of braces and
how their effects go well beyond simply straightening your smile.
Teeth
grinding, also known as bruxism, can cause a host of problems.
Headaches, chipped teeth, pain, worn enamel, jaw pain, and sleep
disruption are all consequences of this condition. While bruxism has
many different causes, including stress and genetics, a misaligned
jaw or uneven teeth can also raise the risk.
If
the orthodontist finds that your jaw isn't lined up properly and you
also have bruxism, braces may be a win-win option. Even though braces
aren't a viable choice to prevent bruxism, they can correct a
diagnosed underlying cause or fix misalignment issues that result
from constant grinding.
Temporomandibular
joint disorder (TMJ) is a jaw condition that can cause pain,
sensitivity, and other related issues. Improper jaw alignment can
cause damage to the joint, resulting in this uncomfortable disorder.
In some cases, bruxism can raise the risk. But the two conditions are
separate and not always related.
Many
different treatments exist for TMJ disorders, including medications,
oral splints, mouth guards, and physical therapy. For some patients
who have diagnosed misalignment of the jaw, braces can correct the
root problem.
Braces
may not effectively treat TMJ if the underlying cause isn't an
existing alignment issue. But if your bite doesn't line up correctly,
the continued stress on the joint may worsen the problem. This
orthodontic treatment is essential to reduce the effects of the
disorder.
Jaw
alignment issues aren't the only reasons to choose orthodontic
treatment. Overcrowding in the mouth can cause serious problems for
your dental health. Teeth that aren't spaced correctly may make
proper dental care almost impossible.
Without
the ability to brush or floss every surface of the tooth, you're at
risk for dental decay. While several factors may increase the
likelihood that you'll develop dental caries (cavities), poor oral
hygiene is a major contributor. Moving your teeth, through
orthodonture, to a more natural position can make dental care easier.
In
addition to tooth decay, overcrowding can also cause gum disease.
Again, several different factors contribute to periodontal (gum)
disease. But bacteria buildup from poor oral care is one of the
primary culprits behind this condition.
Overcrowding
causes the slim gaps in between teeth to close almost completely. The
result is the inability to get something as small as a piece of floss
or a flossing tool in the crevasse.
Even
though you can't get the floss in the space, microscopic
microorganisms can get into the area. These bacteria can feed on any
leftover debris and increase the chances of developing gingivitis or
more serious gum disease.
Luckily,
moving the teeth apart slightly makes it easier to adequately remove
debris and disease-causing bacteria. The result is a reduced
likelihood of developing periodontal disease.
Along
with the dental issues that braces can repair, these amazing
orthodontic devices can also help to improve the way you speak. A
misaligned bite can cause problems speaking, resulting in
difficulties such as lisps.
Using
braces to align the bite can remedy the underlying cause of some
speech issues — often along with speech therapy.
Do
you or your child need braces? Contact our experienced dental team
at Donald
E. Snyder Orthodontics for
more information. We offer a variety of orthodontic services to meet
your needs.
