Why is orthodontic treatment important?

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  1. American Dental Association
     
    Orthodontic treatment is used to correct a "bad bite." This condition, known as a malocclusion, involves teeth that are crowded or crooked. In some cases, the upper and lower jaws may not meet properly and although the teeth may appear straight, the individual may have an uneven bite.

    Protruding, crowded or irregularly spaced teeth and jaw problems may be inherited. Thumb-sucking, losing teeth prematurely and accidents also can lead to these conditions.

    Correcting the problem can create a nice-looking smile, but more important, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth. That's because crooked and crowded teeth make cleaning the mouth difficult. Down the road, this can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and possibly tooth loss. An improper bite can interfere with chewing and speaking, can cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel, and can lead to problems with the jaws.
    More Related Answers from American Dental Association
    Orthodontic treatment is used to correct a "bad bite." This condition, known as a malocclusion, involves teeth that are crowded or crooked. In some cases, the upper and lower jaws may not meet properly and although the teeth may appear... More
  2. Dr. Dante Gonzales
     
    Dr. Dante Gonzales answered:
    Orthodontic treatment is important in order to establish a proper bite and a proper alignment of the teeth. Better function, ability to clean the teeth, longevity, esthetics are all enhanced after orthodontic treatment.
    More Related Answers from Dr. Dante Gonzales
    Orthodontic treatment is important in order to establish a proper bite and a proper alignment of the teeth. Better function, ability to clean the teeth, longevity, esthetics are all enhanced after orthodontic treatment. More
  3. Dr. Greg Jorgensen
     
    Dr. Greg Jorgensen answered:
    Not only is orthodontic treatment important so that the smile looks nice (affecting appearance and self esteem), it is also important that the teeth are straight so that they can be cared for, restored, and so that they wear evenly.
    More Related Answers from Dr. Greg Jorgensen
    Not only is orthodontic treatment important so that the smile looks nice (affecting appearance and self esteem), it is also important that the teeth are straight so that they can be cared for, restored, and so that they wear evenly. More
  4. Dr. Dustin Burleson
     

    Orthodontic treatment is important for several reasons. Alignment of the teeth and jaws can prevent more-extensive dental treatment later in life. In some patients with severe jaw misalignment, preventive orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatment might also prevent jaw surgery later in life. Facial esthetics and the positions of the lips can also be improved with orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth; it can provide the foundation for proper tooth, jaw and lip support. If you have questions about orthodontic treatment, ask your orthodontic specialist for more information. Only an orthodontic specialist is the unique individual who receives 2-3 years of additional training, beyond dental school, to learn the proper way to straighten and align your teeth and jaws.

    More Related Answers from Dr. Dustin Burleson
    Orthodontic treatment is important for several reasons. Alignment of the teeth and jaws can prevent more-extensive dental treatment later in life. In some patients with severe jaw misalignment, preventive orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic... More