4 Additional Health Benefits of Adult Orthodontics

Home / 4 Additional Health Benefits of Adult Orthodontics

Our smiles are important when we socialise; when we talk, when we laugh, and even to show a friendly gesture. Because our smile is so crucial to the way that we engage with others and view ourselves, many people who have crooked teeth and misaligned bites can feel pretty self-conscious. This is where adult orthodontics can help. Many adults never had the opportunity for orthodontic treatment when they were younger, but the good news is that it’s not too late. The challenges might be different, but adult orthodontics  can help many adults regain their confidence and their smile. In fact, in addition to straight teeth for life, adult orthodontics can prevent other long term health effects.

Adult Orthodontics Minimise the Development of Periodontal and Gum Disease

Misaligned or crowded teeth can actually increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and periodontal disease. When the teeth are crowded, they become harder to brush and floss. Food gets trapped between teeth more easily and cause a build-up of nasty plaques and bacteria. Adult orthodontics can straighten teeth and improve bite problems, leading to a minimisation of these diseases.

Adult Orthodontics Stop Headaches and Jaw Pain

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ for short) is where the lower jaw attaches to the side of the head. When the bite is not aligned properly, it can cause headaches, pain in the jaw joint and other issues. The good news is that an orthodontist can move even adult teeth into different positions with the right treatment. As the bite is realigned and altered through such treatment, it can help to cut out headaches and jaw pain associated with a misaligned bite. It is important to understand that other underlying issues may be causing the headaches and jaw pain. These issues may need further investigation.

Adult Orthodontics Can Reduce the Risk of Sleep Apnoea

Some people have a category of bite, where the lower jaw may sit back, in relation to the upper jaw. In some severe cases, these people have a very narrow airway. This  can lead to sleep apnoea. By moving the lower jaw forward to its correct position, it can open and improve the airway, which can eliminate sleep apnoea or reduce it significantly.

Protect Your Teeth

One of the other problems associated with a misaligned bite is that teeth can become worn prematurely or even cracked. In some cases, adults may loose their teeth, from a "bad" bite. Adult orthodontic treatment can help put the teeth in a better position for long term health, often preventing the need for crowns or implants.

If you are considering adult orthodontics, contact Profile Orthodontics to book a consultation and discuss your treatment options.

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    • Barbara

      About Barbara

      As the Clinical Manager and Treatment Co-ordinator for Dr. Wholley at Profile Orthodontics, Barbara Turner has the pleasure of seeing all of the clinic’s beautiful patients on a daily basis – an

    • The Profile Orthodontics Team