This is a guest post by Emily Taylor.
Did you miss out on braces when you were an adolescent? Well, orthodontists say it’s never too late to get that perfect smile and bite. In the past two decades, there has been a 39% increase in orthodontic treatments in adults. And even adults over 50 have been embracing this orthodontic option.
Adults often have broken, worn or missing teeth that need attention. Any periodontal disease must also be controlled. And braces may be just one part of adults’ complete treatment plan.
Thorough exams help to repair any problems. Once your mouth is healthy, your dentist will take photographs of your face and profile. X-rays help to show the position of the teeth and roots, along with an impression of your teeth. This helps in designing a plan made for you. Patients selecting an orthodontic treatment also need to remember that retainers are braces and are crucial to ensure their treatment is a successful one and does not face further bite problems.
Why Braces for Adults Are Important?
1. Ability to Chew Better
Crooked and misaligned teeth result in an incorrect bite. And as a result, it’s difficult to chew and bite properly. Often times, patients may also experience an upset stomach since food isn’t broken down properly in your mouth. Braces help to re-align your teeth for a better bite and allow you to eat a lot more than you can!
2. A Boost in Confidence
A lot of adults struggle with oral health as they age. Teeth tend to become crooked if not treated. People may have stained or even decayed teeth. And as a result, many people feel less confident. If you have been avoiding friends or colleagues at the office, a re-alignment of your teeth will help you face people with a lot more ease and confidence.
3. Lack of Treatment during Childhood
A major percentage of adults would admit that they did not receive treatment when they were younger. Kids may have faced underbites, crossbites, overbites, and incorrect jaw positions. These problems can result in headaches, gum disease, and tooth decay if not treated on time. The best solution is to get it cured before the treatment becomes complicated.
Types of Braces for Adults
Adults have different braces to choose from depending on the problem that is identified.
Here Are the Main Adult Braces Options:
1. Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common and preferred orthodontic treatment option. They have become less noticeable and wires also help to shift teeth faster.
2. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are a lot less noticeable than metal braces. The brackets of these braces are made from a ceramic material that matches the color and texture of the patient’s teeth. And they are as effective as traditional braces.
3. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces look just like metal braces. The only difference is that they are placed at the back of your teeth. Lingual braces are a great option since they can straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. However, they may cause a little discomfort and patients may take a while to get used to them.
4. Clear Braces
Being almost transparent, clear braces seamlessly match the color of your teeth. They are virtually unnoticeable, making them the perfect orthodontic solution for a lot of kids and adults who dislike wearing braces. Another benefit with clear braces is that they can be removed between meals. There’s also no hassle when you brush and floss your teeth. You don’t have to worry about tiny food particles getting stuck and bad bacteria can be easily washed away.
The number of adults having braces is on a constant rise. More people have identified its need and how it can significantly improve oral health and a better bite. If you’re an adult over 50 and wondering if you should get braces, visit your orthodontist to have your questions answered.
Emily Taylor found the perfect fit for herself as the Online Marketing Manager at Thurman Orthodontics in Fresno CA as she believes that a great smile does more than just make a person look great – it makes them feel great as well. The power of a smile has always been a mystery to Emily and she loves researching and writing about it. She loves to write about everything to do with a healthy bite and a beautiful smile – whether is it ways to achieve it or the importance of it in the various aspects of life. What brings a big smile on Emily’s face is her family and surfing. She also likes to bake and her children and co-workers call her the cookie fairy!
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