5 Important Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Are you thinking about orthodontic treatment? While it's true that orthodontics can give you a straighter smile, the benefits extend far beyond aesthetics. Learn how treatment could be your first step to a lifetime of better oral health.

What comes to mind when you think of orthodontics? If it's metal braces, you're not alone. But the truth is that orthodontics is so much more than braces and delivers so much more than just a pretty smile.

While a straight smile is appealing, orthodontic treatment offers numerous health benefits beyond aesthetics. Aditi Saxena, DDS, Ryan Byrne, DDS, and our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry offer orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults in Austin, Texas.

So, if you're considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, here's what you need to know about the benefits.

1. Better oral health throughout life

The goal of orthodontic treatment is to align teeth properly. This gives you a beautiful smile, but it also gives you better oral health.

Crooked teeth, overcrowding, and irregular bites can create many dental problems — from tooth decay to jaw pain. Orthodontic treatment aligns your teeth properly, reducing your risk of these issues.

Plus, straight teeth are easier to clean. Brushing, flossing, and maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup is simpler. Better oral hygiene means a lower risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and tooth loss.

2. Enhanced chewing ( and digestion)

Misaligned teeth can seriously affect your ability to chew food effectively. You may struggle to break food down into small, digestible pieces. This not only makes chewing uncomfortable, but it can also contribute to digestive problems.

Orthodontic treatment can correct your bite and align your teeth, helping you chew your food more effectively and enjoy better digestion. It can also prevent issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause jaw pain and difficulty eating.

3. Clearer speech

Your teeth and jaws are crucial to your ability to speak clearly. Crooked teeth can lead to speech impediments and pronunciation difficulties, which can be frustrating and embarrassing.

Since orthodontic treatment properly aligns your jaws and teeth, it can significantly impact your speaking ability. You'll have a more confident smile and improved speech clarity and confidence.

4. Reduced risk of trauma

Crooked or protruding teeth are more susceptible to injury — particularly if you play sports or suffer an accident. Along with damage to your teeth, the sharp edges can cut into your lips and cheeks.

Orthodontic treatment can reduce your risk of such injuries by aligning your teeth and eliminating protruding sharp edges. After your orthodontic treatment, sports mouth guards fit more comfortably, too. This added protection can help you avoid painful and costly dental emergencies.

5. Enhanced self-esteem

Orthodontic treatment offers essential functional benefits, but the psychological and emotional advantages aren't overlooked. A straight, attractive smile can significantly boost your self-esteem and your confidence. That confidence can positively impact your social and professional life, from better personal relationships to more significant career opportunities.

And the best news? With advancements in orthodontic technology, options like clear aligners can make the journey to a straighter smile more comfortable and discreet. Learn more about your options with an orthodontic consultation at Austin Advanced Dentistry.

Call us at 512-886-6734 or request an appointment online now.