Are braces worth it?
Many people are unhappy with the position of their teeth but put the decision off because of the costs involved. It is no secret that orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign, is one of the more expensive dental treatments available, so it raises the question, is it worth the money?
There are a few key reasons that adults require tooth straightening. The first is that crooked teeth can really affect self-esteem. First impressions are very important and one of the first things people notice about you are your teeth. The embarrassment felt from having a crooked smile can cause you to avoid eye contact, look at the floor, or cover your mouth with your hands. It can make you avoid smiling with your teeth showing and can put you off laughing in case people notice your teeth.
The second reason is gum health. When teeth are misaligned, they become much harder to clean. Plaque and food debris clings to the crowded areas and is missed by the toothbrush. This plaque will cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed and eventually recede. Gum problems can become more concerning if left to progress. While the initial inflammation and is reversible, this can progress into irreversible gum disease (clinically known as periodontal disease) which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
The third reason is tooth decay. As above, the hard to clean areas created by crowding means it is more likely that plaque is left behind after cleaning. The acids in plaque can cause the enamel to weaken which can lead to cavities (tooth decay).
The fourth reason is speech. This one doesn’t affect everybody, but it is common for misaligned teeth to affect the position of the tongue when speaking, causing a lisp. This is more likely when the lower teeth are affected by crowding, and one or more of the teeth are leaning backwards towards the tongue. The speech can also be affected if there are big spaces between the teeth as this can cause a whistling sound.
Orthodontic treatment can improve so many things that we think they are worth it! If you want to come in for a free orthodontic consultation, call us on 01844 343381 or visit our dental practice in Princes Risborough, Bucks. We see patients from a large area, including High Wycombe, Aylesbury, Thame and the surrounding areas.
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