30 Sep 7 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth
Straight teeth aren’t just for looks. Did you know that there are actually health benefits of straight teeth as well? At Hicks Dental Group in Prescott, AZ, we offer Invisalign for straighter, healthier teeth. Read here to learn more about Invisalign. Here are a few of the many reasons having pearly whites that are properly aligned is good for your dental health:
1. Gives you healthier gums
In many cases, red and swollen gums are a direct result of teeth that are too widely spaced or too crowded. Swollen gums can be a sign of a dental problem called periodontal disease. Straightening your teeth helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, creating a strong defense against periodontal disease, which can lead to the loss of teeth, as well as many other problems.
2. Makes teeth easier to clean
Crowded teeth are much more difficult to floss—which means you are probably less likely to do it or do it properly at least. This can lead to plaque buildup and eventually tooth decay. The inability to remove all the food caught in the brackets and wires of metal braces can also lead to a similar outcome. Many of our Invisalign clients find it much easier to floss within just the first few weeks of wearing their aligners.
3. Prevents tooth wear and tear
Crowded bottom teeth often cause one or more teeth to jut out, which can rub against the upper teeth. The constant friction of one tooth with the other can cause undue wear of the tooth enamel that can lead to сrасkіng, erosion оr tооth damage. Your teeth also work very hard—every time you bite down, there is a lot of pressure placed on them. If they are crooked, that extra pressure can cause your teeth to wear down sooner than they should.
4. Decreases your risk of tooth damage
Crowded, protruding upper teeth are more likely to be broken in the event of an accident.
5. Improves digestion
Teeth play an important role in the digestion process. Protruding upper and lower teeth may hinder the normal jaw alignment, making it more difficult to chew food properly. If food isn’t sufficiently broken down by the teeth, it can lead to inadequate digestion and poor absorption of nutrients. Digestion is one of the most vital roles your body performs and poor digestive health can lead to poor overall health.
6. Improves mental health
Your mental health is a very important component of your overall health. Numerous studies have shown that having a better-looking smile increases the amount you smile, which in turn can lead to various health benefits, including lower stress and improved cognition. It also may boost your self-esteem and confidence, which is always good for mental health!
7. Improves overall health
Since straighter teeth are easier to clean, there’s generally less bacterial buildup. Studies conducted by the ADA have shown that oral infections caused by increased levels of bacteria thriving in the mouth may lead to serious health problems, including Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, heart disease, pneumonia, and stroke.
Invisalign at Hicks Dental Group
Now that you understand some of the health benefits of straight teeth, what are you waiting for? If you’re looking for a dentist in Prescott that can help you restore your confidence and give you better dental health with straighter teeth, then call Hicks Dental Group today! We look forward to giving you something to smile about.
Image by TréVoy Kelly from Pixabay