What are the consequences of untreated tooth misalignment?
They are often dismissed as mere cosmetic defects. In fact, misaligned teeth pose a wide range of potentially serious health risks, such as chronic pain, serious digestive disorders and speech problems.
Difficult oral hygiene
The origin of many of these problems lies in the complicated nature of oral hygiene when teeth are incorrectly aligned. Crooked or twisted teeth create hard-to-reach areas in the mouth that encourage plaque buildup, increasing the risk of tooth decay and periodontitis and jeopardizing overall dental health.
Physical complaints also include the uneven load that affects the jaw. A misalignment can lead to an uneven distribution of chewing forces, affecting the teeth and the jaw joint. Pain, clicking noises and bruxism, the grinding of teeth at night, are often the result. These symptoms can be harbingers of more severe jaw joint dysfunction, which, without appropriate treatment, will have a lasting impact on quality of life.
Further complications
However, the consequences of such a misalignment do not end in the mouth and jaw area. The chewing efficiency – a crucial step in the digestive process – is impaired, disrupting nutrient absorption. Since teeth play an essential role in the formation of sounds, misalignments can also adversely affect pronunciation and, thus, interpersonal communication.
The psychosocial effects should also not be underestimated. In a society that values perfect smiles, visible dental misalignments can lead to low self-esteem and insecurity among patients.
It becomes clear that treating a misaligned tooth is not just an act of vanity but a necessary health precaution. Misaligned teeth that are detected and treated early are an investment in general health.
