It is not too late to get that straight smile you have always wanted. If you choose adult braces, you will not be alone. Today, nearly half of orthodontic patients are adults. Unlike the metal brackets that were the only option 15 years ago, adults can now opt for a more discreet and comfortable orthodontic process such as Invisalign®. With Invisalign®, adult patients wear a series of clear, removable orthodontic aligners that are adjusted as the teeth shift into place. A series of custom-made aligners are worn each for a period of two weeks. You can even remove your aligners to eat, brush and floss. This process never used metal brackets and wires and has a total average treatment time of 3 to 18 months. Furthermore, it is a convenient option for most patients considering the large number of dentists that offer this type of orthodontic treatment such as Group Health Dental.
Your confidence in having a straight smile can largely contribute to a positive emotional health. Most adults consider the personal and professional benefit of a confident straight smile to far outweigh the time and expense involved. Perhaps your family finances when you were a child did not allow for braces and now you have the opportunity to have that perfect smile. Straight teeth are also important for career success. People who are confident and have an attractive smile are said to be hired sooner and get promotions quicker.
Besides the cosmetic gain, there are also some important health benefits in having straight teeth. Crooked teeth can create a place for food to get stuck, causing plaque build-up and eventually gum disease if not carefully treated. Additionally, if your smile is not straight, this usually means you have a misaligned bite. A misaligned bite can actually put you at risk for gastrointestinal issues since your food may not be properly chewed.
Therefore, whether it is to be able to look in the mirror and be confident in your smile or to prevent some health concerns caused by crooked teeth, your choice to get adult braces will be worth it. You can take advantage of today’s innovative clear braces such as Invisalign®.
