August 25, 2025
When most people think of orthodontics, they picture perfectly straight teeth and beautiful smiles - and while that’s certainly a big part of it, there’s so much more to gain from treatment. At Sandy Smiles Orthodontics, our board-certified and award-winning orthodontist Dr. Morgan Zwickel believes that great orthodontic care goes beyond appearances. It’s about total health, facial balance, and long-term well-being.
Whether you’re a parent considering braces for your child or a young adult exploring aligners for the first time, here are five often-overlooked health benefits of orthodontic treatment - and how investing in care now can save you time, money, and headaches in the future.
1. Healthier Teeth and Gums
Crooked or crowded teeth can make brushing and flossing much harder, especially for kids and teens still building strong hygiene habits. When plaque builds up in tight spaces, it increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Orthodontic treatment straightens teeth and improves spacing, making daily hygiene easier and more effective.
2. Better Bite, Better Function
Misaligned bites - like overbites, underbites, or crossbites - can interfere with how your child chews, speaks, and even breathes. Over time, an unbalanced bite can lead to jaw pain, headaches, tooth wear, or even TMJ disorders. Aligning the bite early helps prevent those issues from developing or worsening.
3. Improved Digestion
This might surprise you - but your teeth play a big role in digestion. Properly aligned teeth allow for more effective chewing, which is the first step in breaking down food. When your child can chew thoroughly and comfortably, it supports better digestion and nutrient absorption.
4. Boosted Confidence and Mental Well-being
A confident smile can make a world of difference for a child or teen’s self-esteem. At a time when peer interactions and self-image are especially sensitive, having a smile they feel good about can lead to better social experiences, increased confidence, and a positive outlook.
Dr. Zwickel’s treatment philosophy is all about treating the whole face - not just the teeth - to ensure the final outcome looks natural and balanced. That means she considers facial features, lip position, gum display, and more to achieve a truly confident and beautiful result.
5. Long-Term Savings on Dental Work
Here’s the part many parents don’t realize: orthodontic treatment can actually save you money down the line. When teeth are aligned properly, there’s less risk of damage, grinding, and uneven wear - factors that often lead to fillings, crowns, or even tooth loss later in life. Preventing these issues early can help avoid costly and complex dental procedures in adulthood.
Why Families Trust Dr. Zwickel
Dr. Morgan Zwickel isn’t just passionate about straightening teeth - she’s passionate about caring for people. With her background in both health and aesthetics, she’s known for delivering results that look beautiful and support long-term wellness. She stays at the forefront of cutting-edge orthodontic technology to give every patient the most efficient, precise, and comfortable care possible.
She also loves working with kids and teens - so you can trust that your child is in skilled and compassionate hands.
Ready to Give Your Child the Best Smile and Set Them Up for Lifelong Health?
At Sandy Smiles Orthodontics, we believe every smile tells a story, and we’re here to make sure yours is healthy, happy, and confident for years to come.
Book a consultation today to learn more about your child’s orthodontic options and how early care can make a lasting difference.