Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you, so knowing that your pearly whites are healthy, white, and uniform will work wonders for your self-confidence and ensure that you’re making memorable first impressions. That said, there are actually quite a few health benefits to having straight teeth, and many of them have little to do with your appearance! Keep reading to learn more from your dentist in Glenpool about five of these benefits.
1. Straight Teeth Are Linked to Better Digestion
Whether your teeth are naturally straight, or they were straightened by orthodontics, straighter teeth are better for chewing. And since chewing is the first step of the digestive process, you’re off to a good start if you can thoroughly chew your food! Larger food particles are actually tougher for your stomach to digest, which can lead to stomach issues and even malnutrition.
2. It’s Easier to Keep Straight Teeth Clean
Crowded teeth, crooked teeth, or teeth with gaps between them can be difficult to keep clean, which can increase the risk of oral health problems like tooth decay and gum disease. When your teeth are straighter and uniform, it’s much easier to brush and floss them thoroughly and keep serious issues at bay.
3. Straight Teeth Are Less Likely to Break, Chip, or Crack
Teeth that are crooked or protrude are more likely to break if you fall or are in an accident. Since it’s also more difficult to properly clean teeth that are crooked, these teeth can weaken over time and become more susceptible to injury. Not to mention, these teeth can also unintentionally injure the inside of your cheeks or your tongue.
4. Straight Teeth Will Make Your Speech Clearer
Your teeth play a very important role in your ability to speak, specifically when it comes to pronunciation and making certain sounds. If you have misaligned teeth, it can negatively affect your speaking patterns.
5. Straight Teeth Are Linked to Reduced Head and Neck Pain
When you bite, chew, and use your teeth throughout the day, pressure is applied to your jaws. Under normal circumstances, this pressure is harmless and actually essential for your jawbone’s density; but if your teeth are crooked, it can lead to jaw misalignment and in turn, chronic pain in your head and neck. Straight teeth will align your bite and ensure that your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) isn’t under any unnecessary stress,
Even though most people desire straighter teeth for the improved appearance that it gives their smile, there are many other benefits that shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re ready to upgrade your smile in terms of look, feel, and functionality, talk with your dentist about how to get started.
About the Practice
The team at Glenpool Braces is honored to serve patients and families in the Glenpool community. The practice is led by Dr. Dalia Georgy, who has several years of experience in a wide range of fields. Dr. Georgy completed her dental doctorate at the University of Oklahoma and is a member of the American Dental Association, the Oklahoma Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you have any questions for Dr. Georgy or would like to schedule an appointment, you can contact her practice online or by phone: (918) 201-1414.