While children and teenagers still make up the majority of orthodontic patients, more adults than ever are pursuing treatment.
While traditional metal braces can be visible, new technology has enabled more discreet alternatives. Moreover, many adults realize that a healthy smile is an investment in their future.
Aesthetics
A straight smile boosts confidence and makes a positive impression on people. Having self-esteem that’s based on more than your appearance can lead to more significant social and professional opportunities.
Misaligned teeth serve as a breeding ground for food particles, raising the risk of decay and gum disease. When they’re in the correct position, they can better resist bacteria and are easier to clean.
Traditional braces are connected by rubber bands that can be visible, but there are now options to make them less noticeable. For example, self-ligating brackets clip directly onto the wire and can be made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic to be less noticeable. Other options include power chains that connect rows of elastics and are used to close crowded teeth. Discreet treatment methods also include clear aligners, which are removable for eating and cleaning.
Comfort
Adult orthodontics addresses misaligned teeth and jaws in adults. This treatment typically focuses on improving a patient’s aesthetic appearance but can also address underlying health issues.
Orthodontic appliances have become more subtle and efficient. This has made it more appealing for adults to seek treatment. Additionally, many insurance providers now cover orthodontic care for adults.
It’s never too late to improve your smile. Orthodontic treatment can help treat crooked or misaligned teeth and improve your bite, helping you to have healthy and functional teeth for life. Often, the benefits of seeking treatment outweigh the inconveniences and long-term investment. This has helped drive the recent increase in orthodontic treatment among adults. Orthodontists can now provide more inconspicuous treatment alternatives, such as ceramic braces, lingual braces, and transparent aligners.
Health
Many adults are embracing orthodontic treatment for health reasons. Studies have shown that individuals with crooked smiles, overbites, and underbites have lower self-esteem than those with straight teeth. Additionally, overlapping teeth can trap food particles and make it difficult to brush and floss, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Wearing braces can correct misalignments that affect cosmetic appearance and oral and overall health, including an overbite or underbite, crowded or gapped teeth, and jaw pain or speech problems caused by malocclusions. Additionally, adults can use braces to address issues such as a protruding front tooth that may have worsened over time. This can boost self-esteem, improve dental hygiene, and reduce the risk of future problems. Many adults are also undergoing orthodontic retreatment to correct a previously untreated problem.
Technology
Achieving a well-aligned smile is no longer just for adolescents. Embracing adult orthodontics opens the door to better oral health and a more confident lifestyle.
Thanks to technological advances, braces are now less conspicuous and more effective than ever. Innovations like clear aligners make treatment more discreet and convenient.
The straighter your teeth are, the easier it is to clean them, and it reduces your risk of cavities or gum disease. Correctly positioned teeth also prevent crowding and promote healthy gums.
Whether you want to boost your confidence, improve your oral health, or a bit of both, the best place to start is with a consultation with an experienced orthodontist.
Financial
Misaligned teeth can cause many problems, from gum disease to trouble chewing. Correcting them with orthodontics reduces the risk of those issues and can help to alleviate jaw pain.
Crooked teeth can also make cleaning and flossing more challenging, increasing the risk of cavities. Straightening your teeth with braces makes it easier to keep them clean, which helps you avoid tooth decay and improves your oral hygiene.
While adults must spend longer in braces than teens, advancements have made treatment more convenient and less noticeable. In addition, many dental insurance plans include coverage for adult orthodontics, which can make it more affordable.