The benefits of a more aligned bite

The benefits of a more aligned bite

An aligned bite doesn’t just contribute to a healthier looking smile; it also plays a crucial role in actually maintaining your overall oral health. Alignment treatments and procedures can be a worthwhile investment in your long-term dental and general well-being, and we’re here to explain why.

The term used for teeth that don’t align properly is dental malocclusion. In this guide, we will explore the range of benefits that come with ensuring your teeth are aligned.

Improved Chewing

Ensuring your food is chewed properly is the first step in the digestive process. A misaligned bite, or dental malocclusion, can make this simple task more laborious, resulting in poorly chewed food. According to the NHS, thorough chewing is essential for proper digestion. A misaligned bite can result in swallowing larger pieces of food, which may cause digestion problems as the stomach struggles to break these down.

When your bite is aligned, it allows for more efficient breaking down of food. It also enables the chewed food to mix properly with your saliva, which contains digestive enzymes such as amylase, which help break down carbohydrates. This aids with digestion and nutrient absorption. Bloating, indigestion, and gastric discomfort may occur because of a misaligned bite that is leading to improperly chewed food.

Aesthetic Concerns

The aesthetic appeal of an aligned bite is undeniable, and those with misaligned bites may feel their proportions appear out of sync or balance. The British Orthodontic Society even emphasises the importance of a good bite in contributing to a balanced facial appearance.

Although we’re not always thinking about how misaligned teeth may impact us, the issue may have a subconscious impact on our self-esteem. Those with misaligned smiles can be more reluctant to smile, which can have a knock-on effect on our ability to interact and connect with others in social situations.

Misalignments may also have a compound impact on the appearance of our teeth, as increased wear and tear can result from not having a completely aligned bite or jaw. An aligned jaw not only looks better, but also enhances your smile by increasing symmetry and reducing the potential for longer term issues with wear and tear – which can significantly boost your confidence.

Reduced Wear and Tear on Teeth

An uneven bite can cause excessive wear on your teeth, due to the way pressure is exerted within the mouth during everyday activities. The Oral Health Foundation reports that misaligned teeth can lead to premature tooth damage, enamel wear, and even tooth loss. By correcting your bite, you can ensure that your teeth meet evenly. This reduces the risk of chipping and other forms of wear and tear.

Reduced Jaw Strain

Misaligned teeth can exert uneven pressure on your jaw joints, which can lead to a variety of issues. The NHS notes that this can cause jaw pain, chronic headaches, and even temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

TMD impacts how the jaw moves, and can cause symptoms like pain, popping or grinding sounds, and frequent headaches.

TMD is often a recurrent issue in people with misaligned bite. Although it often resolves itself on its own, recurring symptoms suggest the misalignment of your teeth is causing problems. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with TMD on a regular basis, it’s best to get in touch with your dentist.

Aligning your bite with professional help can help distribute pressure evenly, reducing the strain on your jaw and alleviating associated discomfort.

Eliminate Dental Issues

Aligned teeth are easier to clean, leading to better oral hygiene. This is because misalignment can create hard-to-reach areas in your mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. By straightening your teeth, you can ensure more effective brushing and flossing, helping to prevent future dental problems.

Teeth Straightening Options

At Ringway Dental, we offer various options for teeth straightening designed to suit different needs and preferences. Each method has its unique advantages, and our team can help you choose the best one for you. We will explain the treatments below.

Invisalign

Invisalign offers a discreet way to align your teeth using clear aligners, making it a popular choice among adults. These aligners are carefully tailored to suit your individual needs, whilst taking into account your final goals for alignment.

Ceramic Fixed Braces

Ceramic fixed braces provide a time-tested solution for various alignment issues. They function similarly to metal braces but offer certain aesthetic advantages. Just as effective at treating more complex orthodontic issues, ceramic fixed braces are designed as a subtle alternative to traditional braces. Made from ceramic, they are durable and made to last – despite their subtlety.

Hidden Braces

Hidden braces, also known as lingual braces, are an effective orthodontic treatment for correcting misaligned bites. These braces are similar to traditional braces in how they function using wires and brackets to pull the teeth into the correct position. Hidden braces are more subtle, however, due to the way they are carefully placed in the mouth. They are attached to sit behind the back side of the teeth, making them virtually invisible.

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding is a non-orthodontic technique that can be used to even out jagged teeth for a smoother bite.

Align Your Bite with Ringway Dental

Correcting a misaligned bite offers numerous benefits, from improved digestion and dental health to enhanced aesthetics and reduced discomfort. With today’s advanced orthodontic solutions, achieving a well-aligned bite is more accessible than ever.

At Ringway Dental, we take a holistic approach to dental care. We understand that a misaligned bite is not just a cosmetic issue, but a functional one that can have a lasting impact on your dental health. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised treatment plans that address both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your smile, ensuring long-term oral health and wellbeing.

Interested in exploring teeth straightening options in Manchester? Contact Ringway Dental today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team can guide you through the process, helping you achieve not just a beautiful smile but also a healthier, more comfortable bite. You can call our team on 0161 437 2029 to book an appointment today.

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