Press Release No. 09/2026 · September 2026 · Munich
In honor of Dental Health Day on September 25, the dental practice is providing information on the connection between tooth alignment, chewing function, and lifelong oral health
Munich, September 2026 – To mark National Dental Health Day on September 25, Dr. Matthias Epple’s orthodontic practice at Münchner Freiheit will provide information on the connection between tooth alignment and chewing function. The theme for the 2026 event is “Health Starts in the Mouth – Chew Your Way to Fitness!” and highlights the importance of chewing. Located in northern Munich, the practice has been caring for many families for years—starting with the first checkup in childhood. The message: Proper tooth and jaw alignment is more than just a matter of aesthetics—it’s the foundation for a lifetime of healthy chewing.
Why Tooth Alignment Is Key to Good Chewing
Chewing is one of the most common daily activities—and at the same time, it is an important foundation for nutrition and well-being. For the upper and lower jaws to work together optimally, the teeth must align properly. If teeth are crowded, tilted, or misaligned, or if the upper and lower jaws do not align properly, chewing function can be impaired. Possible consequences include uneven stress on individual teeth, strain on the chewing muscles and the temporomandibular joint, and difficulty breaking down food. This is exactly where orthodontics comes in: it aligns the teeth and jaws to create an even, functional bite.
Straight teeth are easier to care for
Properly aligned teeth also affect daily oral hygiene. Crowded or misaligned teeth create crevices that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and dental floss. Plaque tends to accumulate in these areas more easily, which can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Easily accessible, evenly spaced teeth, on the other hand, are easier to keep clean—a benefit to oral health that goes far beyond mere appearance.
Early Detection: Jaw Development in Children
Orthodontic treatment is particularly effective when developmental issues are detected early. In children, the growth of the jaws and face can be guided in a targeted manner as long as it is not yet complete. Habits such as prolonged thumb-sucking or chronic mouth breathing can also affect jaw development. Experts therefore recommend an initial orthodontic consultation during elementary school—not to begin treatment immediately, but to ensure the right time is not missed. This ties directly into the theme of the awareness day: Paying attention to healthy jaw development early on lays the foundation for proper chewing function later in life.
Things parents can look out for:
- Chronic mouth breathing or snoring in childhood
- Persistent thumb-sucking or pacifier use beyond toddlerhood
- Difficulty biting off food or chewing on one side only
- Noticeable misalignments of the teeth or jaws in the primary or mixed dentition
Shopping Habits in Adulthood
The relationship between tooth alignment and chewing does not end in adolescence. Orthodontic treatment can also improve function in adults—for example, prior to receiving prosthetic restorations, in cases of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or when tooth alignment has changed over the course of a person’s life. A functional evaluation reveals how the teeth, muscles, and temporomandibular joint work together and forms the basis for a personalized treatment plan.
“A harmonious bite is the foundation for a lifetime of effortless chewing—and it’s not just a matter of aesthetics. Paying attention to jaw development early on can save your children a lot of trouble later on.” — Dr. Matthias Epple
About Dr. Epple’s Practice – Münchner Freiheit
Dr. Matthias Epple’s orthodontic practice at Münchner Freiheit offers modern treatments for children, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on digital diagnostics and aesthetic solutions. It is part of the KFO network of orthodontic practices, which has five locations.“Protective gear fits better, is more likely to be worn, and effectively prevents injuries.” – Dr. Matthias Epple
