Do I Really Need Braces?

July 22, 2021

If you’ve been told you need braces, chances are you’ve had an appointment with a professional orthodontist. During your consultation, your orthodontist likely took x-rays or digital photographs to determine how your teeth and bite align together.

Whether your teeth are noticeably crowded or crooked, or you have more subtle imperfections about your smile, you may be wondering—do I really need braces? When you’re trying to decide if orthodontic treatment is worth the investment, here are some things to consider.

Straight Teeth Can Be Healthier

Straight teeth are more than just a pretty smile. Teeth that fit together properly mean you have less risk to develop jaw problems such as temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders, and you may also be less likely to grind your teeth [1].

Teeth that are in alignment put proper chewing forces across your teeth, which allow your teeth to wear down evenly and naturally, which can prevent problems such as tooth sensitivity and discoloration over time.

Braces Can Make Your Smile More Attractive

It’s no secret that braces can make your smile more attractive. Even if your teeth have subtle imperfections, you’d be surprised how much correcting minor issues can impact the overall appearance of your smile. In fact, modern technology allows your orthodontist to accurately predict how your smile will look after treatment [2].

If you’ve been told you need braces, aesthetics aren’t a minor consideration. Due to the natural chewing and biting forces of the jaw, teeth that are crowded or crooked can shift and their appearance can worsen as time goes on. Getting orthodontic treatment now can help prevent teeth shifting and ensure your smile is straight and beautiful for life!

Your Teeth May Be Easier to Take Care of

Orthodontics may just make your teeth easier to clean. People who live with misaligned teeth may struggle to properly brush and floss their teeth. When the teeth are crooked or too close together, there are typically areas where plaque and bacteria are difficult to fully remove, which can increase your risk of oral health problems [3].

However, with a straighter smile, you can have an easier time brushing and flossing. Not only does this make it easier to take care of your teeth in the long run, but it can help your home care habits such as brushing and flossing have even more of an impact on preventing tooth decay and gum disease!

Braces Are Worth the Investment!

Although braces are definitely an investment, they’re a worthy one into not just your appearance, but more importantly, your oral health. Today, you have many options for braces, including traditional metal braces as well as clear aligners and even ceramic braces. If you’ve been told you need braces, don’t forgo this opportunity to invest in a beautiful and healthy smile for life!