Dental braces are a common cosmetic solution to misaligned teeth. However, you may not realise that they bring a number of health benefits as well as an aesthetic improvement. Here are some ways in which braces will bring improvements to your health as well as your appearance.
Dental health
Straightened teeth are not only more attractive, they are easier to clean. It is much more difficult to clean all the surfaces of crooked teeth, and this means that bacteria will build up in the hard-to-reach areas. This will soon lead to a build-up of plaque, which will result in cavities and tooth decay. Straightened teeth will be much easier to clean and will not be so susceptible to the build-up of plaque. Crooked teeth can also be overcrowded in the mouth, effectively fighting for the same space, which can eventually lead to loosening and falling out altogether. Again, tooth braces will prevent this by ensuring the teeth are evenly spaced.
Digestive health
Misaligned teeth can also cause problems with your digestive system. Digestion begins in the mouth, as the action of the teeth on the food allows your saliva to begin breaking it down. Proper chewing of food is essential if it is to be digested properly, but teeth that are not properly positioned can make this much more difficult. This can cause problems with digestion such as bloating, heartburn, acid reflux and nausea. It can also mean that nutrients are not absorbed into the body properly. This is a particular risk if you have an underbite or overbite. Having your teeth corrected by braces can be the first step into a more healthy digestive system, as well as a healthy mouth.
Mental health
It is now widely understood that poor mental health can have a negative effect on physical health, as well as being difficult to live with in itself. Self-esteem and a confident attitude are essential attributes in your everyday life. An attractive smile can play a huge role in this. The more confident you are to smile at everyone else, the more they will smile back, giving you a psychic boost that will improve your mood and feed into your overall physical health.
Dental braces are not merely a cosmetic aid, they can be a huge benefit to your overall health. If you think they may be the solution for you, just talk to your dentist.
For more information on braces, reach out to a dental clinic near you.
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