Straighter Teeth From Orthodontic Treatment Can Make Oral Hygiene Easier

If you are like many people, orthodontic treatments mean repairing a smile. This is a key element of any method of fixing crooked teeth or other common issues in the mouth. However, what sometimes goes unnoticed is how crucial such treatments can be for oral health. If you are struggling with your smile, chances are good that you have dental issues too. Orthodontic care can help.

What orthodontic treatments do and what they can address

Straightening teeth is not a new concept. For centuries, people have worried about their teeth and how orthodontic issues affect a smile. Today, treatments can solve many concerns and restore a person’s smile and oral health. Various methods commonly take care of crooked teeth and misalignment conditions. Treatments can also reduce crowding in the mouth, spaces between teeth, and bite dysfunctions.

Teeth straightening methods put pressure on the teeth, forcing them to move into the correct positions. The treatment length will vary from patient to patient. Depending on the severity of the person’s condition, the treatment may last from a year to three years. Continued oral hygiene habits are vital during this process.

The importance of brushing and flossing

Any general dentist urges patients of all ages to regularly brush and floss. These activities are crucial for oral health and overall wellness. A person should brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. Using a fluoride-based toothpaste is important too. While brushing, the person should make sure to reach both sides and the biting surface of every tooth. Brushing prevents cavities by strengthening the enamel layer and keeping plaque from building up.

Flossing is just as essential as brushing. People should brush daily, gently, removing food particles from in between each tooth. For good results, the individual should spend about two minutes flossing. This will reduce the risks of developing gum disease. In turn, the person can avoid troubling issues such as tooth loss, bone loss, and infections.

The challenges of keeping up with oral hygiene with crooked teeth

With the right orthodontic treatment, a person can find it less difficult to brush and floss effectively. Straighter teeth are less difficult to hit with a toothbrush and floss properly. Crooked teeth can block parts of one another, hindering oral hygiene efforts. Difficult-to-reach areas will soon start to accumulate plaque. This can turn into tartar and attack the teeth and gums.

Other effects crooked teeth can have

When a person struggles to brush and floss effectively, frustrations can mount. Such a person may stop brushing and flossing as often. After a while, the daily habits may become rare occasions. The teeth can start to decay and be painful. They may even become brittle and prone to breaking.

Another reason to straighten your teeth

If you feel embarrassed about your crooked teeth, it is time to seek an orthodontic treatment. But aside from this, you can keep cavities and gum disease away by improving your oral hygiene. When your teeth are straighter, you can find it much less challenging to brush and floss. Meet with your general dentist today so you can get started.

Request an appointment here: https://familydentistphoenix.com or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at (602) 547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.