Orthodontic Treatments for Adults: The Benefits and Challenges
The biggest misconception about orthodontic treatment is that many people feel it’s for teenagers alone. Installing braces as an adult is becoming very common and less of a taboo. Adult orthodontic treatment has seen a significant increase in demand over the years. Severe misalignments can cause chewing, speaking, and breathing issues, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. However, several varieties of orthodontic treatment options are available to adults, and one of the most popular methods rapidly used these days is Invisalign for adults.
They align the teeth by using a series of molds to force your teeth into their new and improved position over several months. Invisalign costs between $4,000 and $7,000 (estimated), and you can rest assured that your treatment will be done according to your requirements and specifications. As an adult, using Invisalign aligners comes with several challenges and benefits. Learn more about the advantages of Invisalign orthodontic treatment for adults.
They align the teeth by using a series of molds to force your teeth into their new and improved position over several months. Invisalign costs between $4,000 and $7,000 (estimated), and you can rest assured that your treatment will be done according to your requirements and specifications. As an adult, using Invisalign aligners comes with several challenges and benefits. Learn more about the advantages of Invisalign orthodontic treatment for adults.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment in Adults
You are never too old for a flawless smile. Here are four benefits of getting braces;
1. Improved dental health and hygiene – Many people have a two-times daily brushing routine to build their oral health. Still, it can be difficult at times to reach the surface of crowded or overlapped teeth, and this is where braces play a major role because they help to treat crowded teeth, over- and underbites, crossbites, gap teeth, open bites, and generally straighten teeth. They function by exerting pressure on the teeth to aid them in moving into a proper spot. This process makes hygiene maintenance easier with proper flossing, teeth brushing, and removing plaque, leading to a brighter and cleaner smile. Also, the appropriate brushing habits can prevent the enamel from wearing off, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
2. Better breath –This is a similar benefit of Invisalign. A bad stench can result from poor hygiene or not brushing the mouth properly; hence, it is common for bacteria to gather in the mouth, especially when the teeth are overcrowded or crooked due to food particles. The benefit of braces includes having fresher breath, as they can eradicate the source of bad breath.
3. Decreased risk of jaw problems – It is often common for older people to lose bone density, which causes the teeth to shift. The position of the teeth in your mouth directly impacts the health of the jaw bone. When the teeth are misaligned, it causes uneven pressure on the jaw, leading to jaw pain and other problems. Orthodontic treatment can help to correct the teeth alignment and reduce the risk of these issues.
Challenges Of Orthodontic Treatment For Adults
Below are the challenges of orthodontic treatment for adults
1. Increased risk of gum disease – Adults are more prone to gum disease due to age, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Gum disease can complicate orthodontic treatment by causing inflammation and bone loss, making moving teeth into their proper positions more difficult.
2. Higher risk of tooth decay – Adults may have a higher risk of tooth decay due to diet, medication use, and decreased saliva production. If tooth decay is not addressed before orthodontic treatment, it can worsen and compromise treatment success.
3. Jaw pain and discomfort – Adult orthodontic patients may experience jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, making wearing braces or aligners uncomfortable. In some cases, orthodontic treatment may exacerbate existing TMJ issues. Existing dental work, such as crowns, bridges, or implants, can complicate orthodontic treatment. These restorations may need to be adjusted or replaced to accommodate the movement of teeth.
Braces are becoming very common among adults, and there’s no sign of them slacking off in the years to come. Technology has advanced to the point that there are various methods to get your braces done and a variety of lifestyle options and strategies to manage treatment efficiently and effectively.
Healthy teeth and gums boost self-confidence and improve facial structure, which are just a few benefits of correcting your teeth with braces. Book an appointment with an Atlanta Orthodontic Specialists today to ensure the best results.
