ARE BRACES FOR YOU?

Have you considered having your teeth straightened but felt you were too old? Are you dissatisfied with your smile but don't know if braces are for you? Are you finding it hard to keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, a trip to the orthodontist's office may be in order. Below are some of the answers to the most common questions that adults have concerning their teeth.

WON'T I FEEL ODD AND OUT OF PLACE IF I OPT TO GET BRACES AS AN ADULT?

On the contrary! Adults are now filling more than 25% of the seats in orthodontists' offices across the country. Of this high number, men make up approximately 30% of these patients while women are still in the majority. This is rapidly changing, however, as men are finding out that healthy teeth and an attractive smile can be very beneficial in the business world.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF STRAIGHT TEETH, AND WHY DO MOST ADULTS CHOOSE TO HAVE ORTHODONTIC WORK?

· Straight teeth are healthy teeth. Teeth that aren't overly crowded are easier to keep clean. This means that adult gums will be healthier and this will diminish the chances of decay and early tooth loss.

· Teeth that do not line up properly can cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces as well as cause excess stress on supporting bone and gum tissue. This can lead to gum disease and the eventual need for dentures.

· Many adults suffer from temporomandibular disorders or TMD for short. These disorders can cause jaw clicking, headaches, facial pain and a vast array of symptoms. Proper tooth and jaw position can eliminate these problems.

I'VE HEARD THAT IT IS DIFFICULT TO STRAIGHTEN ADULT TEETH. IS THIS TRUE?

While there is some truth to the above statement, it is in no way a hindrance to having the healthy and beautiful smile that you've always desired. With hard work and diligence, you and your dentist can and will achieve the coveted results of orthodontic work.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ADVANTAGES OF HAVING ORTHODONTIC WORK AS AN ADULT?

· First of all, adults tend to be more compliant in their treatment. They tend to follow the dentist's orders more fully and this can make a big difference in the outcome of their orthodontic work.

· Adults tend to wear their appliances and elastic bands as instructed and this can help the teeth to move into their proper position at a quicker rate.

· Adults tend to follow the rules of good oral hygiene. While this is important at any age, it is especially important during orthodontic treatment.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE DISADVANTAGES OF HAVING ORTHODONTIC WORK AS AN ADULT?

· The bones of an adult, unlike those of a child, are no longer growing. Because of this, treatment can be slower and take longer to accomplish. The end results, however, are usually well worth the wait.

· The bony support for an adult's teeth is firmer than that of a growing child and is naturally more resistant to tooth movement. Though this is a hindrance, it isn't a deterrent. As long as the teeth, the gums, and the underlying bone are healthy, teeth can be straightened at any age.

 HOW IS TREATMENT APPROACHED?

In most cases, treatment for adults is nearly identical as for children. Adults, as well as children, need an individualized plan that their orthodontist will decide upon. The first step is a comprehensive oral exam that will evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums.

Next, your orthodontist will take x-rays and molds of your teeth. From these molds, models will be made that will reflect the ideal position of your teeth.

After this, spacers may be inserted to provide a small amount of extra space between your molars. This space is needed to fit the braces around each individual tooth.

Then comes the big day when you get your braces. These will be bonded directly to your teeth and will remain in place for the duration of treatment.

WHAT KIND OF BRACES WILL I GET?

This will depend on what you and your orthodontist decide. Along with the traditional steel braces, there are also braces made of clear plastic or ceramic materials.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANCEMENTS IN ORTHODONTICS AND WHAT CAN IT MEAN FOR ME?

New types of wires are available that can shorten the time needed for treatment. These wires can move teeth faster and more comfortably.

Another brand-new technique for straightening teeth involves the use of numerous, removable, retainer-like appliances. These are called aligners and are specifically made for each individual patient. Each clear, undetectable aligner is worn for approximately two weeks. During this time, the teeth are moved slightly. After two weeks, a new aligner is used and the teeth are further moved. In small increments, the teeth are shifted toward a more suitable position, until finally, the desired results are achieved. This usually takes the same amount of time as conventional braces.

FINAL WORDS

Remember, teeth can be straightened at any age. If you have always wanted to change your smile but were hesitant because of your age, consult your dentist. More than likely, he will start you on the road to more beautiful teeth.