health benefits of a straight smile

Straight, shining teeth are a thing of beauty. We are so accustomed to seeing beautifully straight smiles that the perception may be that they come naturally. This is not always the case. Dr. Shefali Tuli and her team see many patients who are interested in straightening their teeth for cosmetic reasons. In addition to improving the look of the smile, orthodontic treatment also brings a number of health benefits.

One of the issues that patients have with straightening teeth is the assumption that braces are the only way to achieve the desired result. Our team has found that Invisalign is capable of correcting a number of orthodontic issues. This system is preferred for its discreet appearance and the comfort and convenience it affords throughout the treatment process.

When you enjoy a straight smile, you also enjoy benefits such as:

• Easier cleaning. Teeth that overlap can be very difficult to clean efficiently due to small, hidden crevices. Food can become trapped in these tight spaces and invite the accumulation of bacteria-filled plaque. When teeth are straight, it is possible to see these areas address them easily.
• Lowered risk of disease. Cleaner teeth are healthier teeth. Additionally, straight teeth lead to improved gum health. Healthy gums are essential to general health and wellbeing. When gums are infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and increase the risk of infection in other parts of the body, as well as generalized systemic inflammation, which may lead to complications with diabetes, heart disease, and other health concerns.
• Decreased risk of tooth loss. A poll by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has indicated that 10 percent of individuals aged 50-64 have experienced complete tooth loss. Most adults experience the loss of one or more teeth by the time they are in their mid-forties. The primary cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease, followed by decay. Taking care to facilitate the oral hygiene process with orthodontic treatment pays off for a lifetime.
• Healthy teeth promote healthy bone tissue. Tooth loss due to gum disease or decay can lead to bigger problems, furthering the case for teeth straightening to improve hygiene. Bone tissue in the jaw requires stimulation for regeneration. Without this, bone beneath the area of the missing tooth breaks down. When tooth loss has occurred, the greatest long-term benefits come from replacement with dental implants.
• Decrease in chronic headaches. Misalignment can lead to issues such as grinding, clenching, and a bad bite. Each of these conditions places undue stress on the joints that facilitate jaw movement. When under duress, the joints and their correlating muscles, ligaments, and vessels no longer function in harmony. The result is often chronic pain in the face, head, and neck. Depending on the severity of dysfunction in the temporomandibular joints, Invisalign may be recommended alone or in combination with other therapies.
• Decreased tooth wear. Teeth that are not aligned are at an increased risk for excessive wear as well as injury. Front teeth that jut out may be cracked or chipped during physical activity. The imbalance of force in biting and chewing can lead to widespread signs of wear.
• Healthier, more comfortable lips and gums. For many people, misalignment makes biting the cheek a common occurrence. Straightening teeth with the Invisalign system can improve the way that teeth interact with soft tissues in the mouth. Due to the use of aligners rather than brackets, the course of treatment is also kinder to oral tissues.
• Functional digestion. Straight teeth are important for efficient chewing. The degree to which we chew our food sets up the entire process of digestion. When misalignment compromises our ability to chew, the digestive tract is overworked to break down foods. This stress can lead to stomach upset, constipation, and indigestion. Many people who straighten their teeth report finding meals more enjoyable due to improved function.
• Clearer speech. The teeth and tongue work together to make certain sounds. When the two do not meet in the right places, a lisp may develop. Furthermore, gaps at the front of the smile can make it difficult to form words like "fan" or "van." Gaining the ability to speak with optimal clarity can have a great impact on confidence.
• More smiling leads to more happy feelings. We have learned through research that the act of smiling can improve mood. Misalignment can be embarrassing and cause you to avoid smiling. We love seeing the transformation that many or our orthodontic patients go through. Many of them can't stop smiling after achieving their beautifully straight teeth!

The friendly team at Burloak Centre Dentistry can help you experience the many benefits of a straight smile. Call 905.581.4436 for more information on Invisalign