If you’ve thought about getting braces, you may have asked yourself “Why I should care about straight teeth.” Oftentimes, there is a focus on how straightening your teeth will enhance your smile, but there are plenty of other perks as well. Beyond the cosmetic benefits, straightening your teeth can not only improve your oral health, but your overall health as well.

Why Should I Care About Straight Teeth?

You should care about straight teeth because, in the United States, more adults need braces than not. With only 35 percent of adults having well-aligned teeth, it’s likely that you’ve considered the benefits of straightening your teeth. Misaligned teeth, otherwise known as malocclusion, cause difficulty chewing, jaw pain, and uneven wear on teeth. If left untreated, these dental issues can cause serious problems over time. Now that we’ve outlined the likelihood and significance of having malocclusion, let’s explore five benefits of having straight teeth.

Eliminates space where debris can get caught 

The majority of malocclusions create spacing issues between teeth. These spaces create pockets for food to get stuck. When food gets stuck to your teeth, it can result in tooth decay. Tooth decay, or dental caries, occurs when bacteria in your mouth creates acid that attacks the tooth’s enamel. This is particularly a problem if the food that is stuck contains sugar or starches. A cavity forms and, when left untreated, can cause infection, pain, and tooth loss. Improving the spacing between teeth is an excellent preventative care solution.

Reduces bad breath 

The bacteria that are formed from food stuck on or between teeth can cause bad breath. Given that crooked teeth tend to harbor more bacteria than straight teeth, this can result in terrible breath. Brushing and using mouthwash can help keep bad breath at bay, but the best solution is to correct the issue causing the bad breath: crooked teeth.  

Reduces risk of bacteria getting into the bloodstream

Poor oral health doesn’t only affect your teeth, but your overall health as well. Significant dental problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities negatively impact your overall well-being. The dangerous bacteria can spread throughout your body through your bloodstream. Endocarditis, which is an inflammation of the inner lining of the heart’s chambers, is caused by an infection that is carried through your bloodstream from other parts of your body to your heart. Poor oral health can also cause cardiovascular disease, pneumonia, and pregnancy complications. 

More smiling 

People who are self-conscious about their teeth are more inclined to try to keep their teeth covered. This is often done by keeping their teeth covered when they smile, pressing their lips together or even covering their mouth. When you feel confident about your teeth, you will be more inclined to smile, looking and feeling happier and more confident. 

Better self-esteem

One of the most wonderful benefits of having straight teeth is improved self-esteem. The boost in confidence that straight teeth provide will impact many areas of your life. There are many negative effects of having low self-esteem, including depression, social fears, and feelings of inadequacy. 

 You should care about straight teeth because they can improve your overall quality of life. At any age, deciding to get braces Invisalign can be a big decision. Reach out to the office of Dr. Jill Bruno to schedule a free consultation.