Why It’s Never Too Late to Get Your Teeth Straightened
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One common misconception we often come across as dental professionals is that orthodontic treatments are only suitable for children or teenagers. As adults, many of us think we’ve missed out on the opportunity to perfect our teeth.
But the truth is, it’s never too late to straighten out your smile. With modern orthodontic treatments, a healthy and aesthetically pleasing smile is now achievable at any age. Recent advances in technology offer new – and more subtle – treatments, such as Invisalign and hidden braces, suitable for any age. At Ringway Dental, we believe in perfecting our patients’ smiles, regardless of their stage in life. In this guide, we will explain exactly why it’s never too late to get your teeth straightened.
It is true that braces can work more efficiently in younger patients, due to the malleability of their developing jaws and tissues. However, adults can still achieve impressive results from orthodontic treatments.
As we age, our teeth continue to shift, which can sometimes lead to crookedness or misalignment that wasn’t there in our younger years. Braces work – no matter what age we are – by applying continuous pressure over time to slowly move teeth into their ideal positions.
This pressure adjusts the bone structure through a process called bone remodelling, where bone tissue breaks down on one side of the tooth and rebuilds on the other, allowing teeth to move gradually.
With the right orthodontic treatment and input from a dental professional, this process can occur at any age. This explains why adult orthodontic treatments are always a feasible option for improving dental alignment!
The benefits of straightening teeth extend beyond just cosmetic improvements. There are also certain orthodontic treatments that will be better suited to adults, such as Invisalign.
Here are some of the key advantages to straightening your teeth as an adult:
Improved Oral Health: Straight teeth are easier to clean, which can reduce the risk of periodontal disease and cavities. Proper alignment of the teeth even helps to distribute biting pressure evenly, which can protect against wear and tear as we age. In many adults, our oral health and the structure of some of our teeth will alter with time. Seeking orthodontic treatments as an adult can mean these issues are effectively corrected and addressed as they happen.
Better Bite Function: Correcting misalignment can improve your ‘bite’. In dentistry, the term ‘bite’ refers to how the upper and lower teeth align when you close your mouth or eat. Any misaligned teeth can have a huge impact on how comfortable and effective your bite is. So, having your teeth straightened can often alleviate issues such as jaw pain or headaches caused by what we would call an ‘improper bite’.
Increased Confidence: A straighter smile can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. Without even thinking about it, many people do judge others based on their teeth. With a straighter smile, many of our patients do return to us following orthodontic treatment feeling much more confident within themselves.
More Options: As an adult, you may find yourself in a better financial position to explore more subtle options to traditional braces. You can also work with your dentist to ensure you are fully informed about each procedure, every step of the way. Hidden braces, Invisalign, and ceramic fixed braces are all ideal options for those looking to correct their smiles without braces being so obvious.
Invisalign has revolutionised the world of orthodontics, especially for adults. It involves a series of clear, custom-made aligners that are virtually invisible when worn. These aligners are replaced every few weeks to continue the teeth moving process. The main advantages of Invisalign include their discreet appearance and the convenience of being removable for eating and cleaning. However, they do require some discipline – as you should commit to wearing them for the recommended 20-22 hours a day.
Hidden braces are also known as lingual braces. These are attached to the back of the teeth, making them invisible from the front. They work similarly to traditional braces and are equally as effective, but also offer the aesthetic benefit of subtlety. They are custom-made for each patient and are an excellent choice for adults concerned about the visibility of orthodontic treatment. However, they can take a little getting used to in terms of speech and comfort.
Ceramic braces function like traditional metal braces, but they are less noticeable. With ceramic fixed braces, we use clear or tooth-coloured brackets and, in some cases, wires, to blend in more with the natural teeth. Although they’re not as invisible as Invisalign or hidden braces, ceramic braces definitely offer a less obvious alternative to metal braces. They are strong and generally work faster than Invisalign, making them a suitable option for more significant alignment issues.
Today, maintaining our dental health is becoming increasingly recognised for its impact on overall well-being and quality of life. It’s reassuring to know that orthodontic treatments and options are available for everyone, but it’s always worth discussing your choices with an orthodontic professional before making any decisions. Whether you’re considering Invisalign, hidden braces, or ceramic fixed braces, remember that your journey towards a healthier and more confident smile is not restricted by age!
At Ringway Dental, we’re committed to providing personalised care that is tailored to meet the unique needs and lifestyles of each of our patients. With advanced treatments and a compassionate approach, we ensure that every patient receives the best possible care and outcomes.
If you’ve been considering straightening your teeth and enhancing your smile, it’s time to take the next step. Contact our team at Ringway Dental on 0161 437 2029 today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!
