The Benefits

What will I gain from orthodontic treatment?

Two happy smiles The benefits of orthodontic treatment can include the following:

Removal of dental crowding (or sometimes closing gaps)
Alignment of the upper and lower dental arches
Correction of the bite of the teeth so that the front teeth meet on closing and the back teeth mesh together
Reducing the likelihood of damage to prominent teeth
Enhancing facial aesthetics
Accommodating impacted, unerupted or displaced teeth
Preparation for advanced dental treatment, such as crowns, bridges or dental implants
Reversing the drifting of the teeth in older patients who have suffered from advanced gum disease

Will orthodontic treatment stop me getting gum disease or tooth decay?

There is little evidence that orthodontic treatment in general confers such a benefit. However there are individual cases where treatment clearly has been beneficial.

What about social and psychological benefits?

Many patients will comment on how much they gain from a good smile. However research evidence for this has been rather elusive. A recent study by Shaw and co-workers (British Journal of Health Psychology January 22 2007) found no evidence of improved self-esteem, wheras another recent study by Johal (British Dental Journal 202 January 27 2007) showed that the quality of life was significantly improved.