When you hear the word “braces,” what is the first image that pops into your head? Probably a child with a mouthful of metal brackets and wires, right? If so, you’re far from alone, but thankfully, modern-day orthodontics in New Albany is now able to help patients at absolutely any age. Whether you’re an adult who never had braces as a child or whose teeth have shifted throughout the years, know that you’re never too old to get the perfectly straight smile you’ve always wanted.
The Benefits of Braces
While it’s easy to think that straightening your teeth will only enhance your appearance, braces can actually improve your oral health as well! Crooked and crowded teeth typically have cornered off spaces of enamel where plaque can gather that your brush and floss simply can’t reach. As a result, cavities can easily develop in these trouble spots. Plus, misaligned teeth can also cause a misaligned bite, which can lead to pain and stiffness throughout the face, head, and neck.
Fortunately, braces can actually fix both of these problems, even if you’re an adult! When the teeth are properly spaced, brushing and flossing are much more effective, lowering someone’s long-term risk for decay and oral infections. And, by lining the bite up properly, an orthodontist can easily improve someone’s oral function while also eliminating the underlying cause of chronic pain.
More Than Just Metal Braces
OK, so you can get braces as an adult, but you have one more concern: how they look. You just can’t imagine going to work with a bunch of metal on your teeth, and the image is enough to make you avoid treatment altogether.
Many people find themselves in this exact situation, but that’s where a treatment like Invisalign can come to the rescue. Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of thin, clear plastic aligner trays to shift the teeth. They are practically invisible and easily removable, meaning patients can maintain their appearance, diet, and brushing habits throughout treatment so it’s easier than ever to fix their smile.
How Getting Braces as an Adult is Different
Of course, undergoing orthodontic treatment as an adult isn’t exactly like getting it when you’re a child. For one, the bones of your jaw and mouth have stopped growing and have fully fused together. This means that treatment will likely take a bit longer simply because the bones supporting your teeth will be less responsive to movement. And, if someone has experienced tooth loss, bone loss, or developed any other kind of serious dental issue, this can hamper their ability to get braces as well. Fortunately, dentistry has answers to all of these problems. Once a patient has their oral health in order, then there is nothing stopping them from getting orthodontics.
It’s Never Too Late
If you’re tired of feeling self-conscious about your misaligned teeth, know that the smile you’ve always wanted is closer than you might think. Simply contact an orthodontist in your area today, ask them about adult braces, and before you know it, your dream smile will be staring back at you in the mirror.
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Shirck is an award-winning orthodontist who has been serving the New Albany community for years. He is an Elite Invisalign Provider, and no matter your age, he can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted using a treatment designed just for you. To ask any questions or schedule a FREE consultation, click here.