In the past, orthodontic treatment was only really an option for children and teenagers. However, this is no longer the case. Nowadays, orthodontists indicate that correcting crooked, crowded, or spaced teeth is crucial in boosting your self-esteem and self-confidence, regardless of your age.
Moreover, people having trouble with their oral hygiene due to their teeth alignment and placement also benefit from this treatment. Hence, orthodontic importance goes beyond aesthetic reasons.
The fact is that over one million adults are now wearing aligners, and the number continues to rise. So why does this treatment matter?
The Oral Benefits Go Beyond Straight Teeth
As we age, conditions such as tooth loss, wear, and drifting of teeth can cause the teeth to be out of position. This can cause the patient to have problems with chewing or make restoring optimal function impossible. By aligning the teeth back to an ideal position, we can better preserve and replace teeth.
Similarly, the overlapping of teeth makes it more challenging to keep them clean, exposing you to the risk of gum disease. Hence, straightening your teeth with quality aligners not only improves your appearance but also enhances your overall dental health. Nowadays, many people with aligners are above the age of 50, and they can benefit from straightening their teeth just like a teenager can.
Aligners Are No Longer Visible or Ugly
A significant advantage of clear aligners is that they are nearly invisible, which is a crucial factor for many patients. They are transparent and custom-molded to your teeth, making it hard for people to detect that you’re wearing them.
As a result, adults can undertake their daily tasks and professions without insecurities about their orthodontic appliances.
There’s Now a Diversity of Options
Many people who use aligners choose standard metal ones to straighten their teeth. However, dentists and orthodontists may recommend one of the following options:
- Clear aligners
- Lingual braces (braces that are hidden beneath the teeth)
The placement of porcelain braces on the teeth is similar to that of typical metal braces, although the brackets have a sheerer appearance.
Orthodontic Braces Are Temporary but Provide a Permanent Solution
On average, people wear aligners for one to three years. However, this time may be significantly shorter depending on the factors below.
- The extent to which teeth are misaligned. The severity of the crowding or spacing determines the amount of time you will need to be in treatment.
- What kind of bite you have- Whether you have an underbite, crossbite, deep bite, or open bite affects how long the treatment is to correct that type of malocclusion.
- Patient compliance- Wearing aligners for the prescribed number of hours is just as important as getting your wires tightened on traditional braces. Whichever treatment option you choose, it is important to take responsibility for your treatment.