Your teeth are an investment. You will have them your whole life. Making the decision to get your teeth straightened can pay off dividends for years and years to come. Here are some of the benefits and varieties of teeth straightening systems.
What Is The Issue With Imperfect Teeth?
If you don’t mind the look of crooked teeth, you might be wondering why you should go through the trouble of straightening them. But it’s not just about appearances. Crooked or improperly spaced teeth can cause misalignments when you close your jaw, allow bacteria to build up, create jaw discomfort, and in some cases lead to gum disease. Straightening your teeth is worth the time and effort up front to help you avoid problems down the line.
What Is Teeth Straightening?
Teeth straightening can take many different forms. If you are seeking teeth straightening, you may weigh different factors such as speed of treatment, budget, aesthetics, and what you need the teeth straightening to do. Below are some of the different types of teeth straightening systems.
Traditional
Traditional braces conjure images of children with a mouth full of metal brackets and colorful bands. But traditional braces aren’t just for children. They offer the advantage of being able to solve a very wide range of misalignment problems, which not all other types of teeth straightening can. Traditional braces are not always the most aesthetically pleasing option, but they are affordable and effective.
Ceramic
Ceramic braces are very similar to traditional braces, but they are closer to the white color of teeth and therefore are less visible to others. They can correct many of the same issues as traditional braces with a slightly higher cost. However, ceramic braces can become stained and discolored without proper care. If you do not practice diligent oral hygiene, this may not be the ideal option for you.
Lingual
Lingual braces go on the back of the teeth, which means they are invisible to other people but can be an obstruction for your tongue. This trade-off is worth it for some people who don’t like the look of braces on the front of their teeth, but they cannot solve some dental issues.
What Is A Popular Option For Teens and Adults?
The image and idea of uncomfortable metal braces poking into their gums have led many teens and adults to opt for Invisalign. This technique uses a series of clear trays like mouthguards that are made from frequent molds of patients’ teeth. The trays are worn as often as possible except when eating, drinking, or doing oral care. Because they are removable, you don’t have to avoid eating certain foods. While Invisalign is one of the most appealing options for people who want to straighten their teeth without discomfort or visibility, Invisalign has some limitations on what it can correct. Speak to your dentist or orthodontist about whether Invisalign is a good fit for you.
What Are The Benefits Of Teeth Straightening?
Getting your teeth straightened can have significant life-long effects. From making you feel more confident to providing an array of health benefits, teeth straightening can have a resounding impact.
Greater Self-Confidence
Dr. Ty Eriks said that when many patients come into his office, they avoid smiling with their teeth or cover their mouth when speaking because they are insecure about their teeth. Having straight teeth can immensely boost your self-confidence. You no longer have to be conscious of your teeth every time you smile for a photo or laugh at a joke. For patients who are concerned about the look of braces and their smile, Invisalign might be a strong choice for them.
Helping Out Your Jaw
When your teeth are not aligned correctly, your jaw experiences strain when you bring your teeth together. Over time, the chewing and grinding of misaligned teeth can create jaw pain and consistent headaches. When your teeth fit together correctly, it alleviates the strain on your jaw.
Avoiding Gum Disease
Periodontitis, or gum disease, can happen with improperly spaced teeth. Food can get trapped between teeth with too wide a gap or between crooked teeth that are hard to clean. This can lead to gum inflammation and pain until the food is cleared away. If left untouched, this issue can escalate to gum disease, which can cause tissue decay in your mouth and tooth loss.
Seek Out A Trusted Professional
Dr. Ty Eriks is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. He practices dentistry in Boynton Beach along with a team of experienced dental specialists. For more information, contact Eriks Dental Group to discuss your dental needs.