Many people may think that braces are only for cosmetic reasons, but there are a number of health reasons to get braces as well. Both adults and teenagers might resist the idea of getting braces, but Invisalign braces are invisible. For people who are considering Invisalign Missouri, a dentist like those at Brentwood Dental Group may be able to discuss the procedure and its advantages. Here are a few of the health benefits of braces.

Healthier Gums

Gum disease, known at different stages as periodontal disease and gingivitis, can be a serious condition. Teeth that are out of alignment or too crowded are difficult to clean, and this can result in periodontal disease. It is a progressive disease that can worsen throughout a person’s lifetime, affecting the person’s overall health and resulting in the loss of teeth. Braces can help prevent this.

Healthier Teeth

The ease of cleaning straighter teeth that makes gum disease less likely also makes teeth less vulnerable to cavities.

Prevention of Bone Erosion

Gaps between teeth can lead to bone eroding in the spaces where there is only gum. Braces bring teeth together and prevent this erosion from occurring.

Better Digestion

Crooked teeth can result in problems with chewing. In addition to digestive problems, this can also cause soreness in the jaw. Straighter teeth make for easier and more efficient chewing.

Improved Speech

Teeth that are severely misaligned can lead to difficulty in pronouncing some words and speaking professionally and fluently. Orthodontic work can result in an improvement.

Psychological Benefits

A better smile is a major reason that people get braces, and the psychological benefits of that cannot be discounted. This may be particularly true in adults who have spent a lifetime dealing with crooked teeth. People may have developed work-arounds for concealing their teeth such as smiling without opening their mouths. The confidence that comes with a mouthful of healthy, straight teeth can be enormous.

Adults who remember the braces of previous decades may be surprised at how undetectable Invisalign braces can be. Many people can look forward to an improved smile in under a year as well as enjoying the health benefits that accompany the results.