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Dr. Karen Conn of Bryn Mawr Orthodontics explains how orthodontic treatment can improve a patient’s overall health
By Dr. Karen Conn (Bryn Mawr Orthodontics)
As an orthodontist, I see firsthand the many ways that orthodontic treatment with Invisalign or braces impacts a person's health. In addition to improving a smile, orthodontic treatment can also help to improve a patient's overall health in a number of ways.
One of the most important ways that orthodontic treatment can improve a patient's health is by improving their oral health. Crooked or crowded teeth are much more difficult to clean properly, which can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Orthodontic treatment can help to straighten teeth and make them easier to clean, which can help to prevent these oral health problems.
Another way that orthodontic treatment can improve a patient's health is by reducing their risk of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition in which the airway becomes blocked during sleep, which can lead to snoring, gasping for air, and other problems. Sleep apnea can be a serious health condition, and it has been linked to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Orthodontic treatment can help to improve the alignment of the teeth and jaws, which can help to open up the airway and reduce the risk of sleep apnea.
In addition to the physical benefits of orthodontic treatment, there are also a number of psychological benefits. A study by the American Association of Orthodontists found that people who received orthodontic treatment reported feeling more confident and having a higher self-esteem than those who did not receive treatment. This is likely due to the fact that a straight smile is often associated with being more attractive, and having one’s “best smile” can also make a person feel more confident about their overall appearance.
When your teeth are not aligned properly, it can put stress on your jaw joints, which can lead to pain and the risk of Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder. Orthodontic treatment can help to align your teeth and reduce the stress on your jaw joints, which can help to relieve pain and improve function.
A proper bite is important for chewing food and preventing tooth wear. Orthodontic treatment can help to correct a misaligned bite, which can improve your chewing ability and protect your teeth from wear.
Crooked teeth can sometimes interfere with speech. Orthodontic treatment can help to align your teeth and improve your speech.
Orthodontic treatment can offer many benefits to your health and overall well-being. It is never too early or too late to be seen by an orthodontist!
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Karen Conn, DMD, MS is a Board-certified orthodontist and co-owner of Bryn Mawr Orthodontics (Bryn Mawr, PA), where she specializes in Invisalign and braces for children, teens and adults. She has been recognized as a Philadelphia Magazine Top Dentist, Main Line Today Top Dentist, Suburban Family Top Orthodontist, and is among the nation’s top 1% of Invisalign providers. Dr. Conn received her undergraduate and doctorate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. She completed her residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Temple University, where she also earned a master's degree in Oral Biology.
Bryn Mawr Orthodontics serves its neighbors in Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, Villanova, Ardmore, Haverford, Wynnewood, Narberth, Radnor, Penn Valley, Bala Cynwyd, Merion, Wayne, and the entire Main Line.
To learn more about Bryn Mawr Orthodontics contact the office today (484-383-0055) or schedule a free consultation online.
