Not Your Kid's Braces

When people think about orthodontic treatment, they often envision teenagers sporting a mouth full of metal and colorful rubber bands. The truth is, however, that braces aren't just for kids. More and more adults are seeking out braces not only to achieve a more dazzling smile but to improve the function, comfort, and overall health of their mouths. If you're an adult who's on the fence about improving your teeth with orthodontic appliances, consider these facts about how far orthodontia has come and how it could benefit you.

Types of Braces

Whether you had braces as a child, your teeth have recently shifted, or you have lived with an imperfect smile your entire life, forget everything you think you know about braces. Orthodontic appliances and treatment plans have come a long way even in the past few years, welcoming more options than ever before to meet each individual's needs more appropriately. Thanks to a variety of teeth straightening options available today, you can choose the perfect plan to meet your unique orthodontic, aesthetic, and financial requirements.

Traditional Braces

Perhaps the most popular option, traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that are used to align your teeth over time. While they are glued to your teeth and cannot be removed until after your treatment is complete, they are highly effective at correcting complicated orthodontic problems, such as overcrowded teeth and misaligned jaws. Best of all, they are more affordable and smaller in appearance than ever before.

Clear Braces

Like traditional braces, clear braces are comprised of brackets that are glued to your teeth. Because they're made from a translucent, ceramic material, however, they are much more discreet, which makes them popular among adults. They also must be kept particularly clean since they're clear and not brushing diligently could lead to unwanted discoloration or other problems once your braces are removed.

Invisalign

For a more discreet, convenient alternative to metal braces, Invisalign aligners are a popular choice in teeth straightening. Made from clear, BPA-free plastic, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for convenient eating, brushing, and flossing. While they are usually more expensive than traditional braces, people love their discreteness, convenience, and that the risk of breaking a clear aligner is much lower than damaging a bracket or wire with traditional braces.

Benefits of Wearing Braces as an Adult

There's no question that wearing braces will improve the appearance of a patient's mouth, but there are more surprising benefits that can improve a person's overall quality of life. Some of these include:

• Relieve Pain: If your teeth aren't properly aligned, your jaw could be affected. If left untreated, this could contribute to chronic headaches and jaw disorders, such as TMJ.
• Fix Crowded Teeth: Crowded teeth create tight spaces that allow food and bacteria to easily get trapped and are difficult to remove. When these crevices aren't thoroughly cleaned, the debris that's left behind can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
• Improve Speech & Eating: Crooked or crowded teeth can contribute to difficulty in speaking clearly or eating comfortably. A straighter smile can instantly improve speech as well as making chewing and biting easier.
• Stop Bone Erosion: Misaligned teeth can put unnecessary pressure on your jaw in certain areas and not enough pressure in others. As a result, your jawbone can erode over time in some areas, while not receiving enough stimulation in others.
• Treatment Time: Every patient is curious about how long they can expect to be in braces. Treatment times will vary based on your orthodontic issues, the appliances that you choose, and how strictly you follow your orthodontist's treatment instructions. Most patients can expect to be in their appliances for 12-18 months.

Life After Braces

You may be surprised how different you feel once your braces are removed and you're left with straighter teeth and a more balanced bite. Along with boosting your confidence, your improved smile is sure to make your everyday experiences of chewing, speaking, and cleaning more comfortable than ever. To preserve your straighter smile, your orthodontist will give you removable retainers to wear at night or at your convenience. Doing so as directed will ensure that your straight teeth last a lifetime.Tired of your crooked teeth? Visit your local Ideal Dental to start your journey towards your perfect smile today. Once your 18 months of orthodontic treatment are up, you'll be wondering why you waited so long to get adult braces after all!