Did you know that twenty percent of people who have braces are adults?
That’s right, braces are not just for teenagers anymore. As orthodontic care technology and techniques have advanced, more and more adults are seeking treatments to improve their oral health with a perfect smile.
But how do you know if you could benefit from orthodontic care as an adult? The signs can be subtle and sometimes overlooked.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key indicators that might suggest you could reap the rewards of orthodontic treatment. Keep reading if you want to find out more.
1. Visibly Crooked Teeth
One of the most apparent signs that you might need orthodontic treatment is visibly crooked teeth.
Crooked teeth are not just about aesthetics. They can also lead to various oral health issues.
For instance, they may interfere with proper chewing, which can affect digestion. They can also make it challenging to maintain oral hygiene. It can also lead to problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
Orthodontic treatments such as ceramic braces can help in correcting crooked teeth. These braces are made of a clear or tooth-colored material.
They are often chosen by adults because they’re less noticeable than traditional metal braces. By applying steady pressure over time, ceramic braces gradually move your teeth into a straighter position.
The result is not only a more appealing smile but also improved oral health.
2. Overcrowding
Overcrowding is another sign you might benefit from orthodontic treatment. This happens when there isn’t enough space in your mouth for all of your teeth to fit normally.
This can lead to teeth growing in at odd angles or even becoming impacted, which can cause discomfort and further dental issues.
Orthodontic treatments can solve the problem of overcrowding. Your orthodontist may recommend ceramic braces.
They also might recommend invisible aligners or in some cases, extraction of one or more teeth. The purpose of doing this is to create more space.
Once enough space is created, the remaining teeth can be moved into alignment for a healthier and more attractive smile.
3. Pain or Fatigue in Your Jaw
If you’re frequently experiencing pain in your jaw, it could be a sign that you need orthodontic treatment. This can especially be true for those who have paid after waking up or after periods of intense concentration.
This discomfort can be due to a misaligned bite, also known as malocclusion. When your teeth don’t fit together properly, it puts extra stress on your jaw muscles, leading to pain and fatigue.
Orthodontic treatment can help in realigning your bite. This will reduce the strain on your jaw muscles and thus eliminate the associated discomfort.
Your orthodontist may suggest ceramic braces, traditional braces, or other orthodontic devices to gradually shift your teeth and jaw into proper alignment.
Remember, straight teeth aren’t just about looking good. They’re crucial to your overall oral health.
If you’re experiencing issues such as visibly crooked teeth, overcrowding, or pain or fatigue in your jaw, it’s worth scheduling an appointment with an orthodontist.
They can evaluate your situation. They will then suggest the best orthodontic treatments for you.
4. Unhappiness with Your Smile
Not feeling comfortable with your smile is a valid reason to consider orthodontic treatment.
Smiles are a vital part of our everyday interactions. If you’re often hiding yours, it can significantly affect your self-esteem and overall well-being.
The desire for a more confident smile isn’t merely cosmetic; it’s an essential aspect of personal satisfaction and self-image.
Orthodontic treatments like Invisalign aligners can gradually move your teeth into desired positions. This will enhance the appearance of your smile.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.
This makes them a popular choice among adults who want to improve their smiles without the look of traditional braces.
5. Speech Problems
Many people don’t realize that orthodontic issues can lead to speech problems. Misaligned teeth or an incorrect bite can cause lisping, whistling, and difficulty articulating certain sounds.
This can be frustrating and may even impact your social and professional life. Orthodontic treatments can help correct the dental issues causing these speech problems.
For instance, Invisalign aligners can reposition misaligned teeth, leading to clearer speech. Remember, oral health goes beyond just having healthy teeth and gums—it also includes your ability to speak clearly and confidently.
It’s not uncommon for adults who had braces as children to notice changes in their bite over time.
Factors like wisdom teeth growth, not wearing a retainer as advised, or natural shifts in your teeth can alter the alignment of your bite, leading to issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
Orthodontic treatment as an adult can help address these changes.
There are various orthodontic devices that can be used to readjust your bite, improving not only your oral health but also your overall dental care routine. Proper alignment makes it easier to brush and floss effectively.
The Benefits of Orthodontic Care
If you do not feel comfortable about your smile, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the top signs that you could benefit from orthodontic care.
Keep in mind that an orthodontist can help you to straighten teeth that are visibly crooked. They can also address issues related to overcrowding. Lastly, they can help you to overcome speech problems.
Are you ready to improve your smile? If so, Gleason Orthodontics can help you.
We care about each of our clients and are passionate about creating beautiful smiles. Don’t hesitate to visit our Treatment Options page to get started today!
