*This post is in collaboration with Weybridge Dental
We all know that looking after our teeth is important. It is why we drag the kids to the dentist every year.
But, there are some dental procedures that, at first glance, seem unnecessary. One example is having your teeth straightened. The other day I was reading about Invisalign at WeybridgeDental clinic and it got me thinking. Why do people go to all the trouble of having their teeth straightened? Is it just for cosmetic effect or are their medical reasons for having it done?
In fact, I got so curious that I did a little research on the subject. Here is a quick summary of what I found out.
Having a Nice Smile Makes it Easier to Find Success
I am not 100% convinced about this first reason. But, some studies do indicate that having straight teeth makes you appear to be more attractive. Apparently, this can make it easier to get a 2nd date and to land certain kinds of jobs.
For example, if someone is interviewing candidates for the role of shop assistant the chances are that the candidate with the crooked smile will be at a slight disadvantage. Without really realising it the interviewer is going to, almost certainly, favour the candidates with the nice straight white smile. You can find out more about why this is the case by clicking the link and reading the short study you will find there.
Straight Teeth are Easier to Keep Clean
Good dental hygiene is essential if you want to keep your teeth as you age. Straight, evenly spaced teeth are much easier to clean properly than crooked ones that overlap each other. It is virtually impossible to get dental floss in between two teeth that cross over each other.
Wonky Teeth Can Lead to Bad Breath
The fact that maintaining good dental hygiene is harder can leave you more prone to having bad breath. It is far easier for bacteria to be left behind after you have cleaned your teeth. Over time, this can build-up to the point where your breath starts to smell bad.
It Can Lower Your Risk of Developing Gum Disease
For the same reason, you are also going to be at a greater risk of gum disease. In time, your gums will start to recede and you can end up losing your teeth at a relatively early age. There is also increasing evidence that gum disease can lead to or exacerbate other health issues.
You Have a Lower Risk of Tooth Injury
When your teeth are crowded together as they grow it can weaken them. A tooth that is not growing out straight from the gum will very likely not be as deeply rooted and secure as one that is. So, there is a slightly higher risk of dental injuries.
Wonky Teeth Can Wear Faster
If your teeth are not properly aligned, the level of wear and tear they are subjected to is greater. They are left rubbing together in a way that nature never intended. As a result, they wear away faster.
The above are just a few of the reasons it makes sense to at least investigate the possibility of having your teeth straightened. So, if you have not done so already you might want to talk to your dentist about whether your teeth, or those of other family members, need to be straightened.