Many people choose to pursue Invisalign as a discreet way to achieve a straighter, more attractive smile. While the core reasons of seeking a more aligned grin may be primarily aesthetic, there are some health benefits of having a straighter smile, too.

Below, Mark Stephens DMD, a leading dentist based in Richmond, KY, explains the advantages of saying goodbye to crooked teeth:

• Lower Risk of Tooth Damage: When teeth are misaligned, it’s likely that at least one tooth is experiencing a heavier impact than others when you bite down. Thus, it’s possible for one tooth to become more worn than others. This could even lead to chips or cracks, which could compromise the health of the entire tooth. When you use Invisalign, your teeth become aligned and therefore receive the same level of impact when you bite, so no single tooth is under too much pressure.

• Better Hygiene: It’s nearly impossible to floss between teeth that are too close together. Likewise, it’s difficult to clean the entire surface of crowded teeth. When your teeth are straight, they become easier to brush and floss, which allows for better preventive care on a long-term basis.
• Less Tongue & Cheek Biting: If you’ve ever bitten your tongue or your cheek, you know that the feeling can be painful, especially if it keeps happening again and again. When your teeth are perfectly even, you’ll be able to maneuver them properly without your tongue or cheeks getting in the way. Thus, your odds of biting your cheeks or tongue on a recurring basis will be significantly reduced.

Ultimately, choosing to pursue straighter teeth has countless benefits. A healthy, aligned smile won’t just make you feel more confident; it will also help you maintain a higher level of oral wellness for years to come. If you’re interested in discussing Invisalign with one of the caring staff members at the office of Mark Stephens DMD, call (859) 626-0069 or visit the practice online.