Why Straighten Teeth?
Straight teeth have benefits that extend far beyond the aesthetic realm. For example, teeth that remain crooked can cause a cascade of oral health problems and even impact an individual’s ability to chew, bite, eat, and speak correctly. At Orthodontics of Santa Barbara, we recognize the importance that straight teeth have on your confidence and overall health, and we are here to answer your questions.
How Do Crooked Teeth Affect My Oral and Physical Health?
There are many ways that crooked teeth can affect an individual’s oral and physical health. Orthodontics of Santa Barbara has compiled the top five adverse effects of not correcting crooked teeth:
1. Difficulty Performing Oral Functions
It is easy to take oral functions such as biting, chewing, eating, and speaking for granted. Crooked teeth make these functions more difficult because the teeth and jaws are not properly aligned. Misaligned teeth and jaws can cause clenching and grinding. This can contribute to Temporomandibular Disorder, which is commonly referred to as TMJ. TMJ can cause chronic pain and discomfort, further restricting oral functions.
2. Persistent Headaches, Face, and Neck Pain
Temporomandibular Disorder is exacerbated by the misalignment of the upper and lower jaws and crooked teeth that cause clenching and grinding. Misalignment, clenching, and grinding put excessive pressure on facial muscles, tendons, and jaw joints. This pressure can create persistent headaches, face, and neck pain that impact the ability to perform daily activities.
3. Compromised and Weak Teeth
Clenching and grinding can cause teeth to become weak, compromised, and wear unevenly. In addition, crooked teeth are more prone to collect plaque because they are more difficult to clean. Plaque is a sticky film that is made of bacteria and can either be pale yellow or colorless. When plaque hardens on the teeth, it is harder to remove and can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. If left unaddressed, this issue may escalate, resulting in the loss of the tooth. In addition, teeth that are not properly aligned can more easily be broken or fractured in an accident.
4. Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
A buildup of plaque can result in the development of gingivitis, which is inflammation and infection in the gums. If gingivitis is not treated in a timely manner, it can develop into periodontal disease. In addition to adversely affecting the gums, periodontal disease can affect overall wellness and lead to bone loss. The loss of bone around the teeth leaves them without proper support. Without proper support, teeth become loose, and an individual may even lose them.
5. Complications Replacing Teeth
If a tooth is lost, crooked teeth pose a challenge in replacing it. Shifted and crooked teeth crowd the mouth, eliminating the amount of space needed to replace a missing tooth. To successfully replace a missing tooth, the teeth need to be straightened and in their original position to allow for proper spacing.
Why is it in My Best Interest to Straighten My Teeth?
In addition to oral and physical health benefits, straight teeth impact emotional and mental wellness. For example, correcting crooked teeth can enhance a person’s self-image, self-esteem, and self-confidence. In turn, this can result in better performance, whether it is in one’s social life, academic arena, or a given career path. Furthermore, straightening the teeth early on may be more cost-effective, preventing costly restorative dental treatments later in life.
What Are My Options for Straightening My Teeth?
Orthodontics of Santa Barbara offers an array of options for straightening teeth. Two popular options for straightening teeth are braces and clear aligning trays known as Invisalign:
1. Braces
Braces are permanently affixed to the teeth for a set period of time. Braces use brackets that bond to the teeth and are connected with wires. The wires provide the tension necessary to begin correcting an individual’s bite and pulling the teeth back into alignment. The brackets and wires are tightened throughout the process until it is time to take the braces off. Two kinds of braces that are often used are traditional metal braces and porcelain ceramic braces.
2. Invisalign
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligning trays to correct misaligned teeth. Unlike braces, these trays are custom-made with digital technology and can be completely removed. They are a good option for individuals who do not want the hassle of braces or for those who want a less noticeable orthodontic option.
Orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign can take some time to get used to. Though they may feel cumbersome at first, they do not take long to acclimate to. Orthodontics of Santa Barbara will be happy to discuss your individual preferences and treatment options in more depth when you give us a call at (805) 979-9070.
Who Can Use Orthodontic Services?
Anyone who has crooked teeth or has trouble with their bite or jaws can use orthodontic services. Importantly, individuals do not have to be a certain age to use the orthodontic services offered at Orthodontics of Santa Barbara. Children, teenagers, and adults can all benefit from having their teeth straightened and will experience an improvement in oral health and overall wellness.
How Much Do Orthodontic Treatments in Santa Barbara Cost?
Orthodontics of Santa Barbara offers more than one type of orthodontic treatment at our office in Santa Barbara, CA. Therefore, it is difficult to give an exact cost, especially if an individual has dental insurance. On average, braces or Invisalign can be several thousand dollars. However, Orthodontics of Santa Barbara is committed to offering our dental patients cost-effective treatments, so reach out to us today to learn more!
Are You Ready to Straighten Your Teeth and Reclaim Your Smile?
Straightening your teeth accomplishes more than meets the eye. Straightening your teeth can help you perform oral functions, such as eating, chewing, biting, and speaking. It can also prevent the development of Temporomandibular Disorder, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Overall, straightening your teeth offers a plethora of oral, physical, mental, and emotional health benefits. If you are ready to straighten your teeth and reclaim your smile, Orthodontics of Santa Barbara is here to help you!
Straightening your teeth can improve your health and wellness! To find out more about how orthodontic treatments can benefit you, reach out to our dental office in Santa Barbara, CA today at (805) 979-9070!
