Since we were kids, we were told to brush and floss twice a day. But why? Here are a few facts about how straight teeth can make us healthier.
Having Straight Teeth Makes Cleaning Easier
When your teeth are straight, they are easier to clean. There are fewer hard-to-reach areas and your toothbrush bristles can contact all the surfaces that need to be brushed. Plus, flossing is more likely to dislodge food particles completely when your teeth are properly spaced. In contrast, crowded teeth provide an ideal hiding place for food debris which serves as a breeding ground for bacteria. As this biofilm accumulates, it hardens into plaque and eventually tarter that is very difficult to remove. This process doesn’t take long. Biofilm starts to “set” within 48 hours and can turn into tarter within just a couple of weeks. When you have crooked, crowded teeth, your dentist may have to work longer and harder to remove plaque — even if you brush regularly.
Oral and General Health Benefits of Straight Teeth
Because crooked and crowded teeth are difficult to clean, they are more prone to developing cavities. Constant contact with bacteria is also bad for your gums. Gingivitis (inflammation caused by bacteria trapped in pockets between the gums and the teeth) is a common problem for patients with crooked teeth. Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis which affects the gums, connective tissues and even the jaw bone surrounding and supporting your teeth. Advanced periodontitis can result in tooth loss. The chronic oral infection of periodontitis is also linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Straight Teeth Lessen Discomfort and Increase Function
Ideally, your top and bottom teeth should line up with each other to provide the most efficient biting and chewing function without causing excessive wear. When you get your teeth straightened to properly align your bite, you cut down on the amount of stress your teeth experience. This leads to a longer and healthier lifespan for your teeth. It can also help alleviate some forms of chronic jaw pain that are linked to having a misaligned bite.
Aesthetic and Social Benefits of Having Straight Teeth
The most important emotional/psychological reason to get your teeth straightened is to feel good about your smile. Both kids and adults generally feel better about their appearance after undergoing a successful tooth straightening treatment. People who are shy about smiling, laughing, or having their photo taken can be more relaxed knowing that their teeth look straight and even.
It may seem shallow to think that people might judge you based on the straightness of your teeth, but it’s a pretty common attitude. According to an Invisalign-sponsored survey of 1,000 Americans, almost 50 percent said they believe having crooked teeth makes a poor impression. If you ask most people whether they find straight teeth appealing, they will admit they do. Having crooked teeth isn’t likely to keep you from landing a job or finding love. However, you can benefit from a boost in self confidence once your teeth look their best.
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