An aligned bite is a benefit most people don’t consider. When we think about orthodontic treatment, we focus on straight teeth. We want that straightened smile to feel more confident.
However, when we correct your bite, it provides several benefits. Crooked teeth cause your bite to not align properly. Typically, this causes an array of dental issues to arise.
For instance, because it puts more stress on certain teeth. Over time, this wears them down and causes TMJ issues. Moreover, this strain makes it easier to chip or crack a tooth.
Luckily, an orthodontist is able to help. Below, we talk about some common bite issues. Plus, we look at some of the benefits of an aligned bite.
Related Reading: Can Invisalign Fix Overbites?
4 Benefits of a More Aligned Bite
Some of the most common issues with a bite include the following.
- Open bite
- Overbite
- Crossbite
- Underbite
When we correct these issues, we improve the appearance of our smiles. However, we also provide better functionality in our teeth and jaw. This reduces strain on other teeth.
If your bite is out of alignment, here are a few of the top reasons to work with an orthodontist.
Related Reading: What Can Invisalign Treat?
Straighter Smile
As mentioned earlier, people associate a straighter smile with orthodontic treatment. When you straighten your smile, it gives you a boost of confidence. Oftentimes, people find that they smile more after orthodontic treatment.
They associate this with the effort they made for their smile. Moreover, they feel proud of the accomplishment.
In certain cases, a change in bite alignment also adjusts the overall appearance of someone’s face. Speak to your orthodontist to see whether this might apply to you.
A More Comfortable Bite
When your bite has an improper alignment, certain teeth receive more stress than others. This causes them to wear down over time. For example, an overbite causes you to use your front teeth more often.
As you align your bite, it spreads the pressure across your teeth. This gives you a more comfortable bite and reduces the tension for every tooth.
Improved Dental Health
With proper alignment of the jaw and teeth, it’s easier for you to clean your teeth and gums thoroughly. Typically, a misaligned bite and crooked teeth create pockets that are extremely difficult to care for. This makes oral hygiene nearly impossible for these areas.
As bacteria and plaque build-up in these pockets, they sit there and cause decay. Consistent brushing and flossing help us reduce the problem of tooth decay and gingivitis as well as other issues.
Improved Jaw Health
Did you know? Jaw problems have the potential to trigger headaches and neck pain. When you experience these problems frequently, there’s a chance that an improperly aligned bite is the root.
Without an aligned bite, your jaw does twice the work when you eat. This carries the potential to cause chronic pain. When your bite causes this, one of the core benefits of an aligned bite is how much easier chewing becomes.
As you chew with straighter teeth, you eliminate the unnecessary tension. Hopefully, this causes less strain the resonates to your neck.
Related Reading: Braces for Kids: 5 Questions for Parents to Ask
Speak to an Orthodontist About Your Bite Alignment
If you have a misaligned bite, you’re probably ready for relief. When you seek out an experienced orthodontist in your area, you have someone to help you find the best solution for you.
Additionally, if the idea of traditional braces scares you away, you have options. Today, Invisalign treats just about every condition braces do. With these aligner trays, you have a stealthy way to align your bite.
Our orthodontists are happy to work with children, teens, and adults. When you want to align your bite, trust in our team for excellence in service. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist today to start your treatment.
