Orthodontics

Teeth Straightening: Am I Too Old For Orthodontics?

Have you been thinking about orthodontics, but you are not sure if it is right for you? A general dentist can address many issues with your teeth and jaw. One of the benefits of this treatment is that you do not have to be a certain age to enjoy the results. Your general dentist can straighten your teeth and correct bite dysfunctions whether you are young, old or in between.

What the general dentist can do

Getting orthodontic work is important for patients who are not happy with their smile. The general dentist can repair crooked teeth by properly aligning them. Treatment can also improve other conditions such as underbites, overbites and crossbites. Patients also seek help for crowded teeth, gaps in the mouth and buck teeth.

Common methods

For decades, general dentists have used traditional metal braces to straighten teeth. These braces use brackets and wires to put pressure on the teeth to move them into the right places. More recently, orthodontic work has turned to clear braces to align teeth. With these, instead of using metal, the general dentist will place ceramic brackets in the patient’s mouth. They work similarly but do not stand out like their counterparts. Clear aligners are available for patients who do not want to deal with metal brackets.

When to start orthodontic treatment

Some people may think that braces are for teenagers. While this age group is still a common time to begin visits to the general dentist, parents should start much earlier for children. General dentists recommend that patients as young as age 7 should start getting help with crooked teeth and other smile and bite abnormalities. Even if the patient is not ready for braces or aligners, it may be the right time to start watching how the teeth are coming in and moving.

Braces for older patients

While younger patients can benefit from orthodontic care, adults should not shy away from getting braces either. People who did not have the chance to straighten their teeth earlier in life can enjoy the results now. If metal braces will get in the way of activities and work duties, clear braces or aligners may be the right option. Adults will get the same high level of care as children and teenagers.

Benefits

Older people may feel self-conscious about smiling or speaking in public. Crooked teeth may be the reason for this shyness. By get orthodontic treatment, the patient can find a new smile. This can improve the person’s self-esteem. It is also beneficial to the patient’s short- and long-term oral health.

It is not the wrong time

If you think the time has passed you by when it comes to orthodontics, think again. Braces and other treatments can work just as effectively now as they could have in your younger years. If you are tired of looking in the mirror and seeing crowded or crooked teeth, you can find relief. Call your general dentist today so you can schedule an appointment for an evaluation. Within a year or two, you can revitalize your smile.

Are you considering orthodontics in the Benicia area? Get more information at https://beniciadentist.com.

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