Improving Your Oral Health with Braces

Teeth can become crooked or crowded for a variety of reasons. Genetic factors, oral habits such as childhood thumb sucking, and missing teeth can contribute to a bad bite, also called malocclusion. Dr. Antonio Oliviero offers orthodontic treatments to correct these dental health problems. Braces are a popular choice for children, adolescents, and adults at Dentistry on Broadway.

Braces Can Improve Your Oral Health

Straighter teeth not only contribute to a more appealing smile, but they are also beneficial for your oral health. If you have crooked teeth, you may be hiding your smile because of their appearance; what you may not know is that your crooked teeth are hiding something as well. Crowded or crooked teeth create hiding places for bacteria and plaque. Daily brushing and flossing may not be able to reach the food particles stuck between teeth that are misaligned, creating vulnerability to tooth decay and gum disease.

Braces Correct Malocclusion

Another way braces benefit your oral health is by correcting a misaligned bite. The oral health issues involved with malocclusion range from excessive tooth wear to neck pain and headaches. Malocclusion can be the reason for many oral health issues, including bruxism and TMJ disorder. Orthodontics can help alleviate the pain from these conditions by straightening teeth and correctly aligning the bite.

Maintaining Your Braces

Caring for your teeth during orthodontic treatment requires diligence. Since food particles and plaque can collect around your appliances, it is important to brush after every meal in addition to in the morning and before bed. Flossing between the teeth and braces will remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque. Dr. Oliviero can give specific instructions for care and provide frequent dental cleanings to ensure the success of your braces