Braces are orthodontic devices that use steady, gentle pressure to guide teeth into better positions within the jawbone. While most people associate them with achieving a straight smile, their purpose extends far past cosmetic enhancement. Orthodontic treatment primarily addresses structural and mechanical issues within the mouth and jaw. The movement of teeth and reshaping of the jawbone correct alignment problems that affect how a person bites, chews, and speaks, leading to a healthier, more functional oral system.
Restoring Proper Bite Alignment
The primary non-aesthetic function of braces is to correct malocclusion, which describes any misalignment of the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed. This correction ensures that the dental arches meet in a balanced relationship, distributing the forces of chewing evenly. An unbalanced bite places uneven strain on teeth, bone, and jaw joints, which can lead to premature wear and other complications.
One common structural issue is the overbite (Class II malocclusion), where the upper front teeth extend too far beyond the lower front teeth. An excessive overbite, sometimes called a deep bite, can cause the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth, potentially causing tissue damage and abnormal wear. Conversely, an underbite (Class III malocclusion) occurs when the lower jaw and teeth protrude, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth. This misalignment can affect facial appearance and may sometimes require jaw modification in addition to tooth movement.
Another structural problem is the crossbite, which occurs when one or more upper teeth bite on the inside of the lower teeth. A crossbite can affect a single tooth or a group of teeth, causing the jaw to shift to one side during closure. This irregular biting action can lead to asymmetrical jaw growth in younger patients and uneven tooth wear in adults.
Similarly, an open bite is characterized by a vertical gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed, meaning the front or back teeth do not touch at all. This prevents the proper shearing and grinding of food and can be caused by skeletal discrepancies or habits like tongue thrusting.
Improving Function and Comfort
The correction of a misaligned bite leads directly to significant improvements in day-to-day oral function. One noticeable benefit is enhanced mastication, or chewing efficiency, because properly aligned teeth can shear and grind food more effectively. When teeth do not meet correctly, the incomplete breakdown of food may lead to digestive strain as larger food particles enter the stomach.
Corrected alignment also plays a role in improving speech clarity and articulation. The teeth, tongue, and lips must coordinate precisely to form certain sounds, such as “s” and “z.” Misaligned or gapped teeth can interfere with this coordination, sometimes causing a lisp or other speech impediments. By repositioning the dental arches, braces create the proper oral environment for the tongue to move freely, supporting clearer communication.
An imbalanced bite can contribute to discomfort in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull. When the teeth do not fit together correctly, the jaw muscles are forced to work harder to compensate, causing chronic strain on the joint. Braces alleviate this strain by adjusting the dental position, allowing the jaw joint to rest in a more relaxed and balanced position. This realignment can reduce symptoms like chronic headaches, facial pain, and the clicking or popping sounds associated with Temporomandibular Disorders.
Enhancing Oral Health and Appearance
Beyond functional improvements, braces secure long-term health benefits by making the mouth easier to maintain. Misaligned, crowded, or overlapping teeth create tight spaces where food particles and plaque easily become trapped. These areas, often called “plaque traps,” are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss.
By straightening the teeth, braces eliminate these inaccessible areas, allowing for more effective brushing and flossing. This reduction in plaque buildup significantly lowers the risk of developing common dental issues like cavities and gingivitis. Improved hygiene contributes to preventing more severe conditions, such as periodontal disease and associated bone loss.
A corrected bite also protects the teeth from abnormal wear. When teeth meet incorrectly, certain surfaces bear a disproportionate amount of chewing force, which can lead to premature enamel erosion, chipping, or fracturing. Braces ensure that biting forces are distributed evenly across the dental arch, preserving the integrity and longevity of the enamel. While the structural and health benefits are primary, the aesthetic improvement of a straight smile often boosts self-esteem and confidence.