Health benefits abound for adults seeking to straighten their smile
If your smile is a fixer-upper and you’re older than a teenager, you may have thought that it wasn’t worth your time or money to pursue straight teeth through orthodontic treatment.
The truth of the matter is that behind a set of perfect-looking pearly whites there are a number of health benefits. And each benefit is strong case for considering treatment.
A healthy case for a perfect smile
Right now, there are more than one million adults wearing braces, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. That total rises each year not just because folks want to dazzle potential employers and dates with their straight teeth, but also because of the well-researched health benefits of maintaining a healthy smile. The science of it all makes perfect sense.
Visualize crooked teeth, overbites and crowded jaws – and one detail you’ll likely picture are the nooks, crannies and pockets that can be formed when teeth aren’t straight. Food particles, and eventually plaque, can become trapped in these hard-to-reach areas, which leads to cavities, gum disease and other health issues.
By straightening teeth through treatment options including traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners (a clear plastic removable appliance), as well as other orthodontic appliances, you create more accessible surface area on and around your teeth.
Grin and bear it
Making the decision to partner with an orthodontist to achieve straight teeth requires patience and a great deal of commitment on the patient’s part. Without a parent to closely monitor your progress, you’ll need the discipline to fit the upkeep into your already busy schedule.
Also, while kids may require as little as six months to achieve results through the aid of orthodontic devices, you’ll likely need to maintain your commitment to a better smile for a longer period to achieve your desired results. That’s why finding an orthodontist you trust and are comfortable with is key to successful treatment.
When it comes to your teeth, beauty is more than enamel deep. Straight teeth and a pretty smile drive overall oral hygiene health. And each day, more and more adults are making the decision to achieve their desired look by working with an orthodontist.
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