If you think orthodontics are just for improving the aesthetics of your smile, think again. Straight teeth do more than just look good. They help you maintain a healthy smile.

Malocclusion can lead to numerous health issues. If you want a healthy smile but have crooked, crowded teeth or a bad bite, you should consider orthodontics.

Orthosnap clear aligners offer your patients a discreet treatment that results in a beautiful, healthy smile.

What is malocclusion?

Malocclusion refers to the incorrect relation between the teeth of both dental arches when the jaw closes.

Mal stands for “bad,” and therefore, malocclusion means bad alignment. Some prefer to call this misalignment. Either way, it is a significant deviation from an ideal occlusion, and it can cause unsatisfactory function and aesthetics regarding the teeth and bite.

While a common finding, malocclusion can cause problems with speaking and eating. Patients with severe issues may require orthognathic surgery, but most patients can achieve correct alignment through orthodontic treatment.

The ultimate goal of orthodontics is to achieve a functional, stable, aesthetic alignment of the teeth to help patients achieve improved oral health.

How can malocclusion affect a healthy smile?

Crooked, crowded teeth and a misaligned bite can affect oral and overall health in many ways.

Some of the potential issues include:

Tooth decay

Since crooked, crowded teeth make brushing and flossing more difficult, it is easier for patients to leave food particles and plaque behind. This increases the risk of cavities.

Gum disease

The issue is the same as with tooth decay. Irregular teeth hinder patients from being able to properly clean their teeth, which can lead to gum disease. Additionally, crowded teeth can mean some teeth are more lingually or buccally placed. This can lead to reduced periodontal and bone support. Moreover, class 3 malocclusions can mean the mandibular teeth are pushed labially, which can contribute to weakened periodontal support and gingival recession.  

Increased risk of trauma

Patients with an increased overjet have a higher risk of trauma. In fact, an overjet of greater than 3 mm doubles the risk of trauma.

Masticatory function

Patients with hypodontia, anterior open bites, and large or reversed overjet bites have more difficulty chewing food. This can affect diet and nutrition.

Speech impairment

When incisors cannot make correct contact, a lisp can occur.

Abnormal tooth enamel wear

When a patient’s bite is off, it can lead to abnormal enamel wear. This can lead to weakening of the teeth and leave them more susceptible to breakage and damage.

Psychosocial wellbeing

Crooked, crowded teeth and bad bites can significantly affect self-esteem and confidence.

What is Orthosnap?

Orthosnap clear aligners take the place of traditional metal braces. Some say they compare to Invisalign®, but the truth is, they are superior. They can fix issues too complex for Invisalign, and treatment with Orthosnap rarely requires tooth extractions or interproximal reductions.

Orthosnap aligners correct bite issues and straighten teeth discreetly, without the need for metal brackets and wires. The clear aligners are comfortable, nearly invisible, and removable.

This means patients can remove them to eat and perform oral hygiene. Therefore, there are no worries about food restrictions, and no crazy hand gymnastics are needed to floss the teeth.

All the while, the clear aligners gently move teeth into their desired positions. This leads to a healthier mouth with reduced risks for dental decay and gum disease.

So, while orthodontic treatment may seem like an investment in “looks,” they can also help reduce future costs for root canals, fillings, periodontal maintenance, and replacement of lost teeth.

Become an OthroSnap Provider Today

If you are interested in helping your patients achieve healthy smiles with convenient, affordable orthodontic options, contact us today.

We offer online and in-person training to help you give your patients what they want.  

For the most frequently asked questions, find answers here. If you don’t find the answers you are looking for, please call us today at (516) 506-7206.