Getting your teeth straightened isn’t all about vanity or the continual search for movie-star beauty. Although some people get their teeth straightened to make themselves look more attractive, it’s not the only reason clients pay us a visit.

You see, orthodontics isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also about oral health.

Misaligned teeth are much more difficult to brush than straight teeth. So when you chop into a doughnut or gulp down a glass of Kool-Aid, those sugary substances find their way into the spaces between your teeth. No matter how hard you brush, you’ll never reach all the places where those sugars can hide. Straight teeth, by contrast, are much easier to keep clean.

But that’s not the only reason for orthodontics. Misaligned teeth can also lead to more serious problems with your jaw. Your teeth may wear unevenly, making it difficult to chew. You may encounter neck pain, facial pain, headaches or other discomforts because your teeth don’t fit together properly.

So remember that when you’re straightening your teeth, you’re not only making your smile more attractive, you’re making sure that smile will last you.