The benefits of orthodontic treatment are more than a beautiful smile. The fact is that any of the previously mentioned conditions result in a "bad bite". Aside from detracting from one's physical appearance, an inappropriate bite can cause serious dental, and in some cases, physical health problems. At this point let's consider only the dental aspect. Teeth are supposed to fit together like teeth on a gear.

When teeth do not fit together properly, they constantly clash and hit each other during chewing. This causes the supporting bone to recede, teeth to loosen, wear down and the gums to become irritated. This can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.

A bad bite can also be responsible for a condition known as TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome): a condition that affects the jaw joints which leads to muscle tenderness,spasm,head and neck pain, and even jaw joint damage. In this case, the poor bite places undo forces on the jaw joint, pushing or pulling it out of its natural position every time the mouth closes.

Timely orthodontic treatment can correct a poor bite and prevent future dental or physical problems which would eventually cause more extensive and costly corrective procedures.