Braces, Not Just a Luxury

I recently read a published article which considered orthodontic treatment a luxury that only a few should consider.  While most think that putting braces on their kids’ teeth or themselves is purely cosmetic, orthodontics treats much more.  The mouth is a very unstable place.  The misconception that teeth are held still in bone is far from the reality.  Teeth are in a dynamic relationship among themselves and the bone surrounding them.  The force of food being crushed between teeth during chewing creates movement which can affect their long term stability.  Having spaces between the teeth, whether they were there from birth or created from extractions, only increases the amount of movement that occurs naturally.  Similarly, having crowded or overlapping teeth creates areas in which food can get caught and that are hard to clean.  Food impaction can cause bone to recede leading to a higher rate of cavities and increases mobility. 

The job of an orthodontist is to create a stable environment for teeth.  The relationship between top, bottom and adjacent teeth is adjusted to the point where equilibrium is achieved.  Forces are balanced and areas of food and bacteria impaction are minimized.  Coincidentally, this equilibrium leads to a straight smile, because straight, stable roots are an orthodontist’s goal.

While teeth may not seem like a crucial part of the human body, teeth comprise a large percentage of the oral cavity.  Maintaining the health of teeth allows for better chewing, less pain and more comfort.  Straight teeth enhance this health further by promoting balance and better hygiene.  Having healthy teeth also promotes health in the rest of your body. Being able to eat a variety of foods without pain is something that a lot of people take for granted.  Not only that, but studies have shown that people with better smiles are happier with their lives and more successful too.  

Knowing this, the idea that braces are a “luxury” is irresponsible to promote.  This is more a matter of perspective; what is important to the individual.  

by Michael Saba D.M.D

Dr Saba is a graduate of Temple University School of Dentistry.  He is a Board member of the Union County Dental Society and is Invisalign certified.  He currently works at the Laser Dental Group in both Union and Westfield, NJ.    Temple University School of Dentistry 

Board Member of Union County Dental Society