Braces, also referred to as orthodontics or ortho treatment aren’t just for people with crooked teeth. Perfect, straight teeth may be the main reason one would chose to pursue orthodontic treatment but there are even more reasons why braces may be an option.
Overcrowding Leading to
Tooth Decay
An individual with crooked teeth may find it challenging to brush and floss effectively. Overcrowding creates overlapping and small spaces where plaque and bacteria may hide. If not cleaned properly plaque build-up occurs and may lead to tooth decay. Diligent home care, regular dental hygiene visits and dental examinations are important in maintaining a healthy smile.
With a goal to retain your natural teeth for an entire lifetime, using braces with the intention of prevention is a great approach. Making the daily home care routine more effective will help save on dental costs over time.
Constant Tongue Biting
A narrow arch may result in biting your tongue when you eat or speak. This can be a painful annoyance resulting in canker sores or tender abrasions on the tongue. A consultation with a dental professional to determine if dental arch expansion is an option for you is recommended. Of course, the added cosmetic benefit of getting orthodontics for this reason also provides you with a broad, gorgeous smile.
Gum Problems From Teeth Gaps
One may assume that having spaces between your teeth makes brushing and flossing easier. This is true to an extent; in reality, the gum exposure may lead to gum problems and potentially to periodontal disease.
Prevent Premature Teeth Wearing & Erosion
Whether you have an underbite, an overbite or a crossbite, all of these conditions cause improper and unnatural wear and tear on your teeth. Constant friction in areas where teeth meet together in a position other than ideal causes the natural tooth to break down, erode, and possibly fracture.
Over time, teeth will get smaller and smaller and tarnish your smile. While a night guard may temporarily slow down the effects of the grinding and wear patterns, the best long-term solution is to get to the root cause of the issue and get braces to correct the malocclusion.
Speech Impairment Correction
An inherited open bite or self created through excessive thumb sucking is a condition where the front teeth (usually top) are unable to touch the opposing arch for a proper fit and closure. This open space often causes speech impairment such as lisping. It can even make chewing daily meals a painful exercise. Orthodontic treatment aids in reducing and eliminating the open bite to facilitate speech improvement and resolving jaw pain.
Don’t suffer from teeth crowding, tongue biting, premature wear and tear, gum problems or speech difficulties; orthodontics might be a solution for you. 
Whether you’re a child, a teen or an adult, many options are available. We offer solutions from traditional metal braces, removable appliances and Invisalign treatment.
To receive your individualized treatment plan and options, contact us today at Winston Churchill Dental by calling 905-858-2345. We will be happy to provide you with a complimentary orthodontic consultation.
Dr. Kate Bazydlo, Winston Churchill Dental