When it comes to good oral health, age doesn’t matter. Many adults believe that just because they are old, they don’t have the option to have a better smile. Fortunately, teeth can be move, adjusted and corrected at any age.
As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can experience the benefits of orthodontics. Whether your teeth or jaw problem is due to an injury or due to natural growth, orthodontics can accommodate your condition.
How Do Orthodontics Help Adults?
Chiefly, orthodontics can relieve any pain or discomfort you are feeling in your teeth or gums. Jaw pain and difficulty opening your mouth can also be addressed by orthodontics.
Even people who have had braces in their childhood or adolescence can need the help of orthodontics. Teeth can naturally shift into uncomfortable positions as we grow older.
More and more adults are now going to their orthodontist to get their teeth straightened out as well. Orthodontics can straighten teeth, line up jaws for a better bite and adjust crowded teeth and close gaps.
Overall, orthodontics can give you self-confidence as well. The attractive smile you will get after orthodontic treatment can boost your performance in work and in relationships.
What Can Your Orthodontist Do For You?
Orthodontists can do a number of procedures as well as prescribe different treatments to address any injury or cosmetic problem.
One of the most common treatments adults go for is the placement of braces. These braces can give you healthier teeth, a better bite and a good smile.
Regular metallic braces adjust your teeth slowly over time, through the action of pressure and tension. It can take anywhere from 18 months to 3 years, though for many adults, this is just a short time compared to a lifetime of good oral health.
There are also alternative braces and cases that can be used. For example, there are ceramic braces that can be placed instead of metallic ones. Because of their color, they are harder to see. You can also ask your orthodontist about placing the braces at the back of your teeth, or about getting clear aligners instead.
But all of the benefits of orthodontic treatment require commitment and good oral hygiene for you. Though you can be busy for work, always make time for checkups. Avoid eating hard and sticky foods, and always brush and floss.
Written by Dr. Darren Wittenberger, is the best orthodontist Columbia MO has to offer, and owner of his own practice, Advance Orthodontics. Dr. Wittenberger enjoys sharing his expertise to ensure people can maintain the healthiest, straightest teeth possible!
