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Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may
contribute to conditions that cause not only tooth decay but also
eventual gum disease and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can
contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing
function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports
the teeth. Problems may relate to misalignment of the jaw joints,
which can result in chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck.
When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Treatment by an
orthodontic specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than
the additional dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop
in later years.
The value of an attractive smile should not be underestimated. A pleasing appearance
is a vital asset to one’s self-confidence. A person's self-esteem often
improves as treatment brings teeth, lips and face into proportion. In this way,
orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success, as well as improve
one’s general attitude toward life. Research has shown that people
with attractive smiles have distinct advantages in the work place and in social
settings. |
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