Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

The benefits of orthodontics reach far beyond the most obvious cosmetic improvement. During a child's younger years, the self-consciousness of an unattractive smile can produce long lasting effects on his or her self esteem. In many cases orthodontic treatment can increase the child's self confidence and interpersonal relationship effectiveness.

A good occlusion or bite produces better functioning of the teeth. A good occlusion provides a distribution of forces on the teeth that reduces traumatic force to the surrounding bone structure as well as to the teeth themselves. This can also lead to less wear on the teeth. As a result, the teeth have a greater likelihood of long term health. Along these lines it should be noted that straight teeth are much easier to keep clean which directly effects the periodontal health. A good occlusion can also allow facial muscles and the jaw joint to function with reduced strain. Speech is also effected by tooth position. Good occlusion aids in proper speech.

Early orthodontic treatment can guide facial growth for an improvement in not only the bite, but in the resulting profile. In some cases guidance of facial growth may eliminate the need for future facial or jaw surgery.

In many cases the need to extract permanent teeth can be eliminated by early treatment. Teeth, in some cases, can be guided into more favorable positions. Protruded front teeth run a greater risk of injury. Early treatment can reduce this risk. In some cases where teeth are missing, many times the spaces can be closed eliminating the need for replacement by bridges or implants.

In adults orthodontic treatment is sometimes indicated prior to the construction of crowns, bridges, implants, and veneers to provide proper construstion and aesthetics of the prosthetic teeth. Periodontal treatment, in some cases, is improved with proper alignment of teeth as an adjunctive measure.

Mention this article to receive a complimentary consultation with Dr. Crowder. To make an appointment call her offices at (818) 706-8081 or eMail Dr. Crowder.

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