smile blog

Probably the first thing you’ll notice when you complete your orthodontic treatment is that you won’t be able to stop showing off your beautiful new smile. For many people, the cosmetic benefit of seeking treatment was a primary motivator, but did you know that there are a number of other enduring physical benefits to wearing braces or Invisalign that you’ll experience during and after your treatment? Here are the top four health benefits of braces.Reduction in Lifestyle Related DiseasesMany studies shown a link between poor oral health and an increase in lifestyle related diseases. The risks of heart disease are frequently discussed as one major issue that can be reduced when the right oral care steps are taken. Improved hygiene can minimize the likelihood of stroke, pneumonia and diabetes: there’s a clear relationship between these illnesses and the bacteria that can live in your mouth.Increased Nutrition Absorption and DigestionOne long-term advantage of orthodontic treatment is that you’ll be better able to process food. Bite issues often impact on how you’re able to chew, and when the teeth are able to make better contact, processing your food is much more effective. The result is that your body can process the nutrients in your food with greater ease, increasing your body’s efficiency in absorbing those vitamins and minerals.Reduction in PainAddressing any bite or alignment issues can have an impact beyond reducing pain in your teeth and jaws. Tension in your mouth from improper alignment or clenching can have a wider impact in other areas, including chronic discomfort in your neck and shoulders, headaches or migraines, and earaches. In fact, even poor posture can be responsible for discomfort that stems from malocclusion issues, as you could be overcompensating to reduce discomfort.Improved Oral HealthYou might not be surprised to learn that once you’ve addressed any bite or alignment issues with braces that you’ll see an improvement in your oral health. Even subtle changes like slight rotations can pave the way for a significant reduction in the chances that you’ll develop tooth decay and gum disease. Once your teeth are aligned in an optimal position, there will be fewer spots for bacteria to hide, causing a range of more complex issues. A healthy smile also means that brushing and flossing will be more effective, as you’ll be able to reach all areas of the tooth to prevent any buildup of plaque. It’s the accumulation of plaque that leads to cavities, tartar and gum disease, and those can lead to more serious issues if left untreated.It’s never too late to experience these benefits! Visit your nearest Docbraces to discuss any concerns that you have, and learn how it will have a positive impact on your overall health.