5 reasons why braces make sense for adults

Category: Braces · 11 January 2019

Think braces are just for children or teenagers? Those days are long gone. Almost 20% of our cases are braces for adults. This growth is mainly because dentists now use subtler, less visible options such as ceramic braces and invisible aligners. Read on and find out whether braces are the right choice for you.

1. Every smile counts

When you meet someone, your smile is one of the first things they notice. If you feel uncomfortable about your smile, or if you try to hide your teeth, it can come across as tense and unprofessional.
Many people say that crooked or unattractive teeth stop them from enjoying life to the full – and we can understand that very well.

Of course, if you decide on braces or invisible aligners now, you will have to accept a few small restrictions for a few months – but isn’t that small sacrifice worth it if you can then smile without inhibition for the rest of your life?

2. Teeth aren’t set in stone

Teeth can shift at any age. This may be due to an accident, an illness or simply a natural change in the body. In fact, you may have had straight teeth all your life and now suddenly notice changes.

Your mouth can change in adulthood – even if you had braces as a child. Perhaps you didn’t wear your retainer for long enough, or your teeth are genetically predisposed to shift.

Unlike a few years ago, it is now normal for
orthodontists to recommend that their patients wear retainers or night-time braces (long term).

Remember: changes are normal. Talk to us early on about what we can do to preserve your beautiful smile.

3. Crooked teeth may be a risk factor for disease

Studies have shown that misaligned teeth are about as common in adults as they are in children and teenagers.

If you have a crossbite or crooked teeth, plaque and food debris can build up more easily between the teeth and in the interdental spaces. That means an increased risk of periodontitis or gum disease, as well as tooth decay or even tooth loss.

4. Crooked teeth can affect your health

A hidden smile may not be the only problem you need to tackle if you suffer from crooked teeth. The misalignment can lead to headaches and earache. The problem in your mouth can also mean that you can’t chew your food properly and therefore often suffer from stomach and bowel pain.

If you regularly and unconsciously bite your cheek or tongue, there may also be an orthodontic problem – in that case, you should seek professional help.

Remember: crooked or poorly aligned teeth can lead to serious health problems.

5. Modern braces are barely noticeable

Braces have evolved over the years. You no longer have to put up with spinach stuck in your braces or a wire contraption in your mouth.

Probably the biggest innovation in orthodontics in recent years is invisible aligners. We can fit the transparent, removable plastic aligners for you quickly and easily – without metal or wires. Your custom-made invisible braces restrict neither your oral hygiene nor your enjoyment of certain foods. You can take them out at mealtimes and brush or floss your teeth as usual.

The aligners don’t cause any pain and the treatment time is relatively short.

Remember: today’s braces options are lighter, more comfortable, cheaper and less conspicuous – we’ll be happy to tell you more about invisible braces!

Conclusion: there are good reasons for braces for adults

(Almost) all of our patients are happy with their decision to (finally) take the plunge and have their teeth corrected. Your smile is your calling card. If you can’t approach other people openly because you feel uncomfortable about the position of your teeth, it can affect your self-esteem.

Crooked teeth can also cause health problems that you can get under control with a correction.

We’ll be happy to advise you – just get in touch.

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