Is orthodontic treatment only for aesthetics or are there health benefits too?
This is a common question I receive from patients who come to my office for an orthodontic consultation.
The answer is that a beautiful straight smile is not just cosmetically pleasing but is also much healthier. Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing cavities and gum disease. During routine dental examinations, I regularly see dental disease developing specifically at the areas of overcrowding between teeth, places where it is difficult to brush and floss and where food is likely to remain in the oral cavity.
In addition, when teeth meet together correctly, the ability to chew food is improved and there is a reduced risk of tooth fracture and speech impairment.
