Orthodontic care like braces is often associated with straight, beautiful smiles. And while it’s true that a huge benefit is indeed an improved smile, orthodontic treatment can do much more than that for a person. Procedures offered by Full Smile Orthodontics can improve overall health and quality of life. Bite issues, misaligned teeth, and improper jaw alignment can cause discomfort and body-wide health problems both now and in the future. Seeking out experts like Dr. Astuto can change your life for the better through improved appearance and better health. 

How Orthodontic Care Improves Health Beyond Aesthetics

Many people don’t realize the health concerns that can arise from dental issues. The symptoms from tooth, bite, or jaw misalignment can include:

• TMJ Disorder: Within the structure of the mouth area, something called the temporomandibular (TMJ) joint connects the jaw to the skull. This joint directly influences speaking, chewing, yawning, and more. When teeth or the jaw is not aligned correctly, doing those activities can put added stress on that joint. That extra stress can cause pain, grinding and popping, headaches, and neck tension. 
• Sleep Apnea: Improper alignment can cause breathing issues, including sleep apnea by obstructing airways. Interrupted breathing can cause sleep problems, which contributes to poor energy levels, lack of concentration, and decreased wellness overall. 
• Digestive Issues: individuals with bite issues may find themselves with digestion problems. Improper chewing can make food breakdown more difficult, leading directly to digestive discomfort that can worsen over time. 
• Oral Hygiene Struggles: Teeth that are crowded or crooked can make oral hygiene more difficult. Without proper hygiene, people are at a higher risk of decay, infection, and gum disease. Ongoing decay can eventually lead to pain, tooth loss, and even medical complications related to diabetes, heart disease, and more. 

Modern orthodontic care can remedy current issues and help avoid future problems through:

• Braces: Full Smile Orthodontics offers multiple options for braces, including traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces. Using wires and brackets, braces shift teeth to the proper position. Braces straighten teeth, fix bite problems, and correct poor alignment. After treatment, you’ll be left with a better functioning mouth that will improve both confidence and health. 
• Invisalign: Custom-made clear aligners are used to straighten and shift teeth in a more discreet fashion. They are removable, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and eat your favorite foods. Best for mild to moderate orthodontic needs, Invisalign will also result in a straighter and healthier smile. 
• Bite Correction: Bite issues can present in different ways, most commonly known as overbite, underbite, open bite, and crossbite. They have their unique traits, but any bite issue can cause enamel wear, jaw pain, and functionality issues. Braces or Invisalign are typical treatments to correct bite. 
• Jaw Alignment: A misaligned jaw can create several health issues. Treatment can include braces, palatal expanders, or sometimes even surgery. Correcting an alignment problem can improve speech, breathing, digestion, facial symmetry, and pain associated with TMJ.   

Take Control Of Your Health with Full Smile Orthodontics 

It’s time to put yourself first! The team at Full Smile Orthodontics is committed to providing the highest quality orthodontic care for patients of all ages across the Texas Panhandle. Personalized orthodontic treatment will fix your dental issues, leaving you with a renewed sense of confidence and overall health. Take control of your health and happiness by putting your trust in us! Schedule an appointment today to discuss your options and improve your life! 

Download our child registration form or adult registration form. If you have any questions or concerns, Contact Full Smile Orthodontics today. We are happy to help!