Orthodontics can do more for a child’s mouth than just straighten their teeth. Braces can be effectively used to correct problems such as overbite, underbite, and narrow arches. By improving the jaw structure, a child’s total mouth health can be improved.
A Misaligned Bite Takes a Toll On Your Teeth
Teeth that are crooked and crowded together create an ideal environment for bacteria to flourish and for tooth decay to occur. Teeth that are too close in proximity to one another are difficult to keep clean, and flossing can be tricky – especially for younger children. By creating better alignment with braces, it’s easier to keep the teeth clean, which reduces the risk of developing gum disease and Cavities.
Additionally, improving the alignment of the teeth will decrease the risk of future tooth fractures. Orthodontic therapy improves the overall quality of your oral health by creating a more comfortable, natural bite.
Migraines and Muscle Pain Are Reduced
Misaligned teeth often result in a misaligned bite. This can quickly lead to muscle pain and the side effect of experiencing frequent migraines. The tension that begins in the jaw can move into the neck and down to the shoulders. Eventually, this leads to painful migraines that happen more frequently than you would like. With orthodontic treatment, we can correct the alignment of a bite, which relieves muscle tension.
Crooked Teeth Are More Difficult To Brush and Floss
Crooked teeth can be more challenging to brush and floss properly. This results in significantly more cavities and the need for more invasive dental work, such as fillings and potentially root canals. Without maintaining proper hygiene, the teeth and gums can quickly develop gingivitis, requiring dentures later in life if not treated.
When factoring in the cost of early orthodontics, the price of braces is well worth the investment in time and money when factoring in the cost of treating multiple cavities, root canals, and other potential restorative dentistry treatments.
Straight Teeth Improve Overall Body Health, Too
The importance of good oral health is not just for your mouth, but the entire body. Studies show that maintaining healthy teeth and gums is critical for the health of your entire body. The mouth is the entry point for the body, which means harmful bacteria can easily access the rest of the body.
Bad oral health can lead to many serious health concerns, including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Arthritis
- Heart attack
- Alzheimer’s
How Oral Disease Can Affect The Body
Oral diseases can affect the entire body in a few ways, including :
- Harmful bacteria found in the gums can spread to the saliva, entering the respiratory system.
- Bacteria found in the gums can enter the circulatory system, causing disease or worsening existing health conditions.
- Inflammation caused by gum disease can trigger the body’s inflammatory response. This can trigger diseases like heart disease or worsen already present conditions.
The Benefits of Braces Go Beyond Physical Changes
The benefits of orthodontic treatment often go beyond the noticeable physical changes of an improved bite and straighter teeth. Braces are also a great way to improve a person’s overall self-image and give a child a significant confidence boost.
A beautiful, straight smile is physically appealing; however, alleviating the risk of potential health issues associated with poor oral health is the gift that keeps giving throughout a child’s lifetime. Crooked teeth are proven to lead to jaw issues, the need for more frequent teeth cleanings, tooth decay, gum disease, or, ultimately, tooth loss.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7. Though orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, timely treatment ensures maximum dental health. If your child is around the age of 7 and they have not had an orthodontic exam, call Thomas Orthodontics today to schedule their first consultation.
