When people think of the term “braces,” they are likely to think of teenagers wearing wires and metal brackets. Orthodontics is not an age issue, however. More and more adults are increasingly coming for braces in Peterborough to achieve a straighter, healthier smile. If you have been wondering whether it is too late to straighten your teeth, the good news is that orthodontics can be done at any age. Now let’s talk about the benefits, alternatives, and considerations of adult braces.
Why Do Adults Consider Braces?
Many grown-ups seek treatment, for reasons with some of the top motivations being;
1. Improving Dental Hygiene
Crooked or misaligned teeth can complicate maintaining hygiene as food particles often get trapped between teeth leading to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease, down the line. Straightening teeth can facilitate more efficient brushing and flossing making care of your health more manageable.
2. Confidence Boost
A gorgeous smile can make a big difference in self-esteem. Most adults are self-conscious about their teeth and want to get braces to enhance their looks. Fixing alignment problems can give a fresh sense of confidence in social and professional life.
3. Bite Correction
Misaligned teeth can cause conditions like overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite. These can be painful, difficult to chew, and even cause jaw pain. Orthodontic treatment corrects these bite conditions, resulting in improved functionality.
4. Preventing Further Dental Issues
Crooked teeth can result in excessive wear, a greater risk of chipping, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Braces distribute forces on the teeth more evenly, decreasing long-term dental issues.
Considerations Before Getting Braces as an Adult
Though there are numerous advantages to adult braces, there are some things to take into account before initiating treatment.
1. Treatment Length
Adult teeth could take longer to shift than the teeth of younger patients. Although the typical length of time for treatment varies, most adults have braces from 18 to 36 months.
2. Maintenance of Oral Hygiene
Braces necessitate compliance with oral hygiene. Food can become trapped in wires and brackets, promoting the risk of plaque. Brushing, flossing regularly, and visits to the dentist are crucial.
3. Potential Discomfort
As is the case with any orthodontic appliance, braces will be somewhat uncomfortable, particularly after adjustments. This too is a temporary discomfort and can be alleviated with over-the-counter painkillers.
4. Treatment Cost
The price of braces differs according to the nature and length of treatment. Most orthodontists provide payment plans to help make the treatment more within reach.
Life with Adult Braces
It does take a while to get used to braces as an adult, but the payoff is well worth the effort. Following are some helpful tips to make the process smoother:
- Take a soft diet at first – Soup, mashed potatoes, and yogurt can assist with relieving discomfort following changes.
- Practice good oral hygiene – Purchase an orthodontic toothbrush and floss threaders to effectively clean around brackets.
- Steer clear of hard and sticky foods – Popcorn, chewing gum, and hard candies can hurt braces.
- Visit regularly for checkups – Regular checkups with your Orthodontist in Peterborough keep your treatment on schedule.
Is It Worth Getting Braces as an Adult?
Indeed! Investing in orthodontic care as an adult can result in a healthier smile, greater confidence, and future dental rewards. Straightening teeth can enhance appearance and function and is therefore worth the investment.
Come to Chemong Family Dental For Adult Braces
If you’ve been thinking about braces, now is the ideal time to take the initial step toward a healthier and more confident smile. At Chemong Family Dental, our skilled team is here to guide you to your perfect smile. Our dentist in Peterborough offers individualized orthodontic care to address your specific needs. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment and begin your path toward straighter teeth!
