When your teeth overlap, teeth are crowded, twisted, or too far apart, then your smile looks less than perfect. On the other hand, a straight, misaligned set of teeth means a perfect smile. However, having a straight smile is great for many reasons other than just aesthetics. Read on to know!

• Straight teeth are easier to clean

Brushing and flossing remove plaque, which, if left unchecked, can harden into tartar. Plaque and tartar, along with bacteria, will wreak havoc on your mouth. They can discolor your teeth, cause cavities, and even gum disease. Straight teeth are also much easier to clean than misaligned teeth. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which means you’re much less likely to miss spots and end up with cavities.

• Straight teeth can prevent cavities

Cavities are caused by bacteria. Bacteria that are allowed to thrive in the mouth can build up on teeth, leading to plaque and tartar. When you have misaligned teeth, it can be very difficult to reach all the surfaces of your teeth with brushing and flossing. This means you are leaving more bacteria in place, which can lead to cavities.

• Straight teeth can reduce your risk of gum disease

Misaligned teeth are generally more difficult to clean, increasing your risk of gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection that can spread through your mouth, leading to tooth loss and a whole host of other problems. Gum disease has been linked to certain chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

• Straight teeth can help decrease your risk of developing TMJ disorder

When you bite down, all of your teeth are designed to support one another. When one or more teeth are out of alignment, they can become overloaded, which can cause wear and tear on them. This can lead to TMJ disorder.

• Straight teeth can help you prevent premature wear and tear of the teeth

When you chew your food, your teeth are pressed against each other. Each tooth has ridges on the side, and biting down puts pressure on these ridges. If the ridges of your teeth don’t align properly, your teeth will be more susceptible to developing chips, cracks, and fractures. When your teeth don’t align properly, the opposing teeth will also wear down faster, leading to premature wear and chips.

In addition, misaligned teeth can cause problems with your bite. When your bite is misaligned, your teeth may not line up properly when you close your mouth. This can cause issues with your teeth grinding and clenching, leading to tooth damage.

• Straight teeth can help prevent speech difficulties

If you have misaligned teeth, you may notice yourself struggling to say certain words or articulate them clearly. You may also have trouble chewing. By straightening your teeth with a dentist, you can eliminate those speech problems.

To learn more about our orthodontic treatment options, visit our Daniel Tebbi, D.M.D. office at 16661 Ventura Blvd Ste 620, Encino, CA 91436. You can also reach us at (818) 789-2034.