Orthodontic treatment can seem like a large undertaking. The experience can be different for different patients, as not everyone faces the same alignment issues. When you start this process, your dentist will seek to ensure that you walk away with a healthy, straightened smile. You can find yourself marveling at how dramatically your appearance has changed. That being said, orthodontic work is more than just a matter of changing how you look. With straighter teeth, you can reduce your risk for problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and TMJ pain.
Oral Health Problems Linked To Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth can make your oral health maintenance more complicated. You can have a harder time caring for the full area of your teeth, which can mean more trips to the dentist for restorative dental work. It can also be harder to prevent gum disease. If your misaligned bite affects how you bite and chew, it could be the source of TMJ discomforts. Your dentist can talk to you about your particular risks based on your alignment issues.
Regular Visits Make It Easier To Recognize When Something Needs To Be Addressed
It can be hard to realize what oral health problems you are up against without input from your dentist. Regular checkups are important for preventing cavities, but they also allow your dentist to gather information about your oral health status. With these visits, they can help you understand your current needs, and explain what sort of treatments you may need. If you want to retain a healthy smile through the years, make sure you keep up with regular dental visits.