6 Ways Orthodontic Care Boosts Your Health
- July 28, 2025
Think braces are only about creating a picture-perfect smile? Think again. Realigning your teeth can ease jaw pain, reduce decay risk, improve breathing, and so much more. Dr. Willett is focused on the function and longevity of teeth, in addition to the esthetics! Explore the health benefits unlocked by aligning your teeth and perfecting your bite.
1. Improved Oral Health
- Easier Cleaning: Crowded or misaligned teeth can be hard to brush and floss effectively, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
- Healthier Gums: Properly aligned teeth reduce the chances of developing periodontal (gum) disease, which is linked to systemic health problems like heart disease and diabetes.
2. Reduced Risk of Tooth Wear and Damage
Malocclusion (bad bite) can cause uneven pressure on teeth, leading to:
- Tooth wear or erosion
- Chipping, fractures, or premature tooth loss
- Enamel damage due to grinding or clenching (bruxism)
3. Proper Jaw Alignment and Function
Misaligned bites can contribute to:
- Jaw pain or dysfunction (temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ/TMD)
- Headaches, earaches, and facial pain
- Difficulty chewing and digesting food properly
4. Improved Speech Function
Certain bite issues (like open bites or increased overjet) can interfere with the correct placement of the tongue, resulting in:
- Speech impediments such as lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
- Swallowing problems
5. Better Breathing and Airway Health
In some cases, orthodontics can improve airway space and help manage conditions such as:
- Sleep-disordered breathing
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Mouth-breathing, which affects oral and general health
6. Prevention of Future Dental Complications
Correcting bite and alignment early can prevent:
- Jaw growth problems
- The need for extensive dental work or orthognathic (jaw) surgery later in life
- Functional bite issues that may worsen over time
Orthodontics isn’t just about straight teeth—it plays a critical role in protecting the function, health, and longevity of your teeth, gums, and jaw system. Just like any other piece of equipment works better and lasts longer if it’s built correctly, your teeth and jaws will function the way they should if it’s aligned and put in working order. Contact us or schedule a free consultation with the expert team at Lincoln Orthodontics, led by Dr. Emily Willett, and experience the benefits of orthodontics.
