Dental braces are typically associated with children or teens. The idea of wearing orthodontic instruments as an adult has minimal appeal, considering how dental braces impact your appearance for a prolonged period. Nevertheless, problems with teeth alignment affect adults as much as children. There are also instances when the decision to correct malocclusion or teeth misalignment only becomes financially possible in adulthood.
In the last decade, orthodontist clinics like http://www.braces4yourlife.com have seen a rise in adult patients. Correcting the position of teeth and jaw has many benefits apart from giving you a perfect smile. If you suffer from misaligned teeth or bite problems, leaving the condition uncorrected may lead to complications such as tooth decay, pain, and crowding pressure.
What caused the popularity of adult braces?
One of the reasons why the last decade has caused an increase in adult braces is the availability of different orthodontic treatments aimed at adult patients. For example, Invisalign and other types of clear teeth aligners became a highly attractive option for someone who may be self-conscious about wearing metal brackets.
Dental procedures are also expensive, and adults who are seeking orthodontic treatment now may not have been able to afford it while they were younger. Another reason may be that those who wore braces as adolescents failed to continue wearing retainers, causing their teeth to shift.
Challenges with wearing braces as an adult
Although there is no reason to assume that braces are only best used when someone is still an adolescent, there are some challenges with undergoing orthodontic treatment when you are older. First, adult teeth are already entirely formed, which make them harder to correct. Another problem concerns pregnant women with gums that swell during pregnancy. Lastly, the discomfort of wearing orthodontic instruments may impact the lifestyle and work productivity of an adult.
The benefits of wearing adult braces
Despite the challenges associated with adult braces, orthodontists note that there are still many advantages. For example, adult patients are more likely to follow dental care instructions more than younger patients. Perhaps it is because adult patients, unlike adolescents, are aware of the cost of orthodontic treatment.
The cost may be a deterrent to some people, but the availability of short-term corrective procedures and subtler instruments like clear braces continue to draw adult patients to orthodontic practices around the country.
Which options are best for adults?
As an adult, you have more options to consider when it comes to orthodontic treatment. However, the choice will depend mainly on the condition that needs correction. Regular wire braces are still considered the most effective method of correcting teeth crowding and other misalignment issues. But if the problem is less severe, you may be a good candidate for alternative treatment such as clear aligners.
In conclusion, there is no age limit to getting orthodontic treatment. If you feel that getting your teeth straightened will improve your confidence, perhaps it is time to get a comprehensive dental exam to find out your options and undergo the most suitable dental treatment procedure.
