There are a number of reasons why adults choose to undertake orthodontic treatments. They may not have had access to treatment when they were young, or their teeth may have started to shift later on in life. For adults with compromised teeth, orthodontic treatment could be the chance to get rid of the problem teeth and bring the healthy teeth into better functional positions.
Today, orthodontic treatment is a viable option for almost any adult. Approximately one in ten orthodontic patients is an adult and this number continues to grow. With advancements in orthodontic treatment, you have many options available to you that will comfortably fit in with your current lifestyle. While it is not uncommon for adults to opt for partial braces and shorter treatment time to fix a particular problem rather than a full correction, some adults would go the whole way, including jaw surgery.
Braces – ceramic and/or metal
As traditional braces have been perfected over time, they can often achieve dramatic results in the shortest amount of time. With modern technology, braces have come a long way and are much smaller and more comfortable than they used to be. With a skilled orthodontist, who can formulate a treatment plan that is highly suited to you, this is generally the most effective treatment available. Ceramic braces work just like metal braces but they are created out of opaque white ceramic material, giving you a seamless smile while undertaking treatment.
Clear aligners
One of the popular alternatives to braces for adults who require minor corrections is clear aligners. These transparent options feature custom-made aligners that gradually shift the teeth over time. There are obvious benefits of these so called ‘invisible braces’, such as their subtle appearance and removability. They are also beneficial because they allow easy access for cleaning. The aligners should be removed when you eat and drink, minimising the risk of food getting stuck.
The downside for aligners are the high cost and compliance. They need to be worn 22 hours a day to be effective.
Straight teeth have a better chance of being healthy teeth?
In addition to enhancing the appearance of your smile, orthodontic treatment can greatly improve the function as well. The biting force are more evenly spread, and the teeth are not worn unevenly. Straighter teeth generally mean healthier teeth and longer lasting teeth with healthier gum. This is due to the fact that your pearly whites will be much easier to brush and keep clean as there are less hard-to-reach surfaces, and food will not be as easily trapped anymore.