IMany Australians undergo orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth. While this treatment is usually done during teenage years, orthodontists have seen a significant increase in adults visiting orthodontic clinics to achieve their dream smile later in life.

Research conducted by the Australian Society of Orthodontists revealed that almost two thirds of Australians believe that a good smile gives you confidence, and over a third of Australians said that a person’s smile was the first thing they notice when they meet someone new.

In this article, we delve into the benefits of orthodontic treatment and how it can make Australians happier in their everyday lives.

Feel-good hormones
Did you know that the act of smiling activates a series of neural messages that benefit your health and wellbeing? If you’ve grown up feeling self-conscious about your teeth and avoiding smiling at all costs, then having straight teeth through orthodontic treatment may make you want to smile more often. This will activate the release of feel-good neurotransmitters including dopamine, endorphins and serotonin which relax your body, reduce stress and potentially even lower your blood pressure – ultimately helping to boost your mood and make you feel happier.

Better oral health
Crooked, crowded and misaligned teeth can make it harder for you to brush and floss your teeth. This can have several negative implications including tooth decay, gum disease and tooth wear which could have long term effects on your health. By straightening your teeth, orthodontic treatment minimises the risk of these oral diseases, improving your overall health and wellbeing so you can always feel confident in your smile.

Increased self esteem
Having crooked teeth or a bad bite can negatively affect a person’s self-esteem which has a ripple effect on their confidence and interactions with people in their everyday lives. Whether you’re in a professional or a personal setting, a brilliant smile can help you make a good impression and build a rapport with others from the moment you walk into a room.

The benefits of orthodontic treatment range from health and hygiene to cosmetic improvements that will help you smile with confidence. So when the cameras come out, you won’t be dodging the flash or hiding your smile.

Explore our Orthodontist Finder Tool to find a specialist near you. They will help you find a treatment option that improves your confidence and helps you smile from the inside out.