If you’ve been under the impression that orthodontic treatment is only for kids and teens, you’re not alone—but we’d like to set the record straight! Adults make up 1 in 4 orthodontic patients these days and for a good reason. Clauss Orthodontics is going to tell you all about how adults can still benefit from orthodontic treatment, no matter the age they choose to get treatment.
Our Orthodontic Solutions
Before we even begin to unpack the reasons so many adults are opting for this approach, we want to go over the three main appliances we offer at our practice. These all serve different purposes and have various benefits based on the patient.
Invisalign® Clear Aligners
- Virtually invisible and removable.
- Allows you to eat, drink, and clean your teeth without additional restrictions.
- Ideal for adults looking for a low-profile treatment option.
Clear Ceramic Braces
- Blend with your natural teeth for a more discreet look.
- Offer the effectiveness of traditional braces without the noticeable appearance.
Traditional Metal Braces
- A reliable, time-tested solution for both basic and complex alignment issues.
- Works well for patients of all ages and conditions.
Why Are Adult Orthodontics So Popular?
People’s motivations for seeking orthodontic care are almost never exactly the same across the board. It really does depend on the individual—and Dr. Clauss approaches every case on an individual basis. Here are a few common reasons our adult patients visit our offices:
Teeth Shift Over Time
Some patients may have very straight teeth in their youth, only for them to begin moving as they age. There are plenty of internal and external factors that contribute to this movement, like genetics, grinding, or even tooth loss. This can lead to:
- Changes in Your Smile: Shifting teeth can leave you feeling dissatisfied with your appearance.
- Jaw Pain: Misalignment can often strain your jaw function, leading to discomfort or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
- Brushing Challenges: Overlapping or crowded teeth can be harder to clean, increasing your risk of tooth decay or gum disease.
Looking Good and Feeling Confident
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. If you’ve spent years of your life feeling self-conscious about the state of your teeth, orthodontic treatment can be a necessary restorative treatment to create a lasting transformation.
- Improved Confidence: Aligned teeth can dramatically boost self-esteem and help you feel more comfortable in your personal and professional settings.
- A Better First Impression: A confident smile leaves a lasting impression and can positively influence how others perceive you in your daily life.
Maintaining Your Dental Health
People often overlook the fact that straighter teeth are significantly easier to clean and maintain. Sometimes, misalignment is one of the primary reasons behind other dental conditions. A restored smile can help you by:
- Reducing the risk of tooth decay, making it easier to clean between teeth.
- Preventing abnormal tooth wear, which can occur when teeth don’t meet properly.
- Improving your ability to chew comfortably and maintain good overall oral hygiene.
A Long List of Benefits
To take things even further, our Clauss Orthodontics team wants to share some of the special benefits that orthodontics can offer adults.
1. Preventing and Improving Periodontal Problems: Misaligned teeth can trap food particles and plaque, increasing your risk of gum disease. Straightening your teeth makes it easier to maintain clean and healthy gums, reducing the risk of periodontal problems.
2. Reducing Bone Loss: Untreated misalignment can eventually lead to bone loss around the teeth due to improper pressure and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment at Clauss Orthodontics redistributes pressure evenly, helping to prevent or reduce bone loss.
3. Supporting Restorative Dental Work: If you’re missing teeth or considering restorative dental work, remember that orthodontic treatment can:
- Create the proper alignment ahead of dental implants, bridges, or crowns.
- Ensure your dentist has the proper space to restore your teeth effectively.
4. Enhancing Facial Appearance: Straighter teeth contribute to a harmonious smile and even facial structure. This can be especially true of patients dealing with bite and jaw misalignment in addition to crooked teeth.
6. Improving Function: Misalignment’s impact on chewing—arguably one of the most important bodily functions —can extend to issues with digestion for some patients. Proper alignment allows your teeth to work together correctly, improving your ability to chew food well.
7. Speech Correction: Many adults experience speech impediments that are a result of misalignment. This can be a significant advantage of later treatment, especially if your job involves a lot of verbal communication.
The Grown-Up Way to Go
As you can see, orthodontics definitely doesn’t come with a strict age limit and adults can definitely still benefit from orthodontic treatment! Whatever your situation looks like, the first step is to visit Clauss Orthodontics for a free consultation in Watertown or Middlebury!