Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that addresses alignment issues of the teeth and jaws, as well as improper bite patterns. While many patients seek orthodontics to improve the appearance of their smiles, there are several functional benefits to smile-correcting treatments.
If you’re looking for quality orthodontic solutions in Lafayette or Delcambre, LA, then it’s time to contact Michael J. Young, D.D.S. Together with his skilled team, Dr. Young can help you get a healthy, beautiful smile with discreet treatments, like Invisalign®. So, schedule your consultation today by calling (337) 237-6453 or by sending our team a message online here.
Not sure if smile-correcting treatments are worth the hype? Here, Dr. Young and his team will explore six physical, mental, and social health benefits of orthodontics that might change your mind.
Orthodontics Can Help With TMJ Pain
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the articulation point at which the jaw meets the skull. This point of articulation allows us to open our jaws to speak, yawn, and chew. However, misaligned jaws and teeth lead to dysfunctional bite patterns, which can place undue stress and tension on the TMJ.
As a result, many patients with misalignments experience chronic jaw pain and dysfunction. Orthodontics, however, help shift the teeth and jaw into better alignment, which improves bite patterns and drastically reduces TMJ pain.
Prevent Bruxism with Orthodontia
Improperly aligned teeth can become a problem, especially for patients who unconsciously grind their teeth at night (bruxism). Orthodontic solutions move the teeth into better alignment, which reduces irregular dental contact and prevents bruxism.
Get Cleaner Teeth with Orthodontics
Crowded teeth make it more difficult to clean the nooks and crannies in our smiles. Straight teeth, however, are much easier to clean, which reduces the risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
Straight Teeth Improve Speech and Chewing Patterns
Our teeth are multifaceted. They help us produce certain sounds, and they help us mash our food into easily digestible pulp. But, if our teeth aren’t in a favorable alignment, then speaking and chewing can become much more difficult (even embarrassing).
Orthodontics adjust teeth into a more uniform position. As a result, patients can reduce irregular speech patterns (like lisping or whistling) and safely chew their food without risking a chipped or cracked tooth.
Orthodontics Can Improve Your Self-esteem
According to a recent poll, nearly 40% of people admit to hiding their smiles due to crooked teeth. And, shockingly, approximately 70% of adults believe that they could greatly boost their self-esteem and mental health with teeth-straightening solutions.
A Beautiful Smile Can Make You More Appealing to Others
A straight smile has numerous social benefits, particularly when searching for a job or partner. One report claims that people perceive individuals with straight teeth as 45% more likely to land a job and 58% more likely to be financially secure.
Furthermore, straight teeth can give others the impression that you have a good personality. For example, people perceive others with a nice smile as 21% happier and 38% more likely to be intelligent. Not only that, but straight teeth may increase your chances of landing a first date by up to 57%.
Ask Us How We Can Help You Get a Perfect Smile Today
Whether you are a teen or an adult, it’s time to boost your physical, mental, and social health with high-quality orthodontic solutions. Don’t wait for a second longer–schedule your consultation with Dr. Young today by calling (337) 237-6453 or by contacting us online now.
