A straight, uniform smile leaves a memorable, positive impression on everyone you encounter. But the benefits of straight teeth go beyond aesthetics. If you're considering braces, it's important to understand these benefits and how they can impact your overall health and well-being.

Advantages of Teeth Straightened by Braces

1. Improved Oral Health

Crowded or unevenly spaced teeth can be difficult to thoroughly brush and floss, leading to more plaque buildup and a higher risk for oral health problems. Crooked teeth can also irritate the gums, which causes sensitivity, bleeding, and periodontal disease. Straighter teeth, in addition to being easier to clean, fit more securely in your mouth, reducing gum inflammation.

2. Preserve Your Natural Teeth

Teeth that have grown to different lengths can place undue stress on the teeth above or below them. They hit against these teeth more often, resulting in erosion of the crucial enamel layer and grinding of the tooth surfaces. This can impact your bite and cause sensitivity in the affected teeth; in severe cases, the teeth might even chip or crack. With teeth corrected by braces, you get more even, natural wear.

3. Boost Confidence

With a straighter smile comes a greater sense of self-confidence. You'll feel more assured about the image you're presenting to the world. When you have a bright smile, you want to share it. And smiling simply feels good; research has shown that just smiling, even when you’re not necessarily feeling cheery, is enough to increase happiness and improve overall health.

Reap these rewards and improve your smile by calling James Julien, DDS, at (907) 283-4857. This family dentist offers braces, including Invisalign®, to the Kenai, AK, area. For more than 20 years, Dr. Julien has been providing personalized, gentle dental care to patients throughout the Peninsula. He and his staff will help you find the best solutions for straighter teeth. You can also visit their website to request an appointment.