Can I Straighten My Teeth at My Age?
June 20, 2018
There is a common misconception that orthodontic treatment is only beneficial for people of younger ages. Many people mistakenly believe that straightening teeth is only for children and adolescents, but the truth is that straightening your teeth can be beneficial at any age. The benefits of straightening your teeth go beyond just the way they look. These benefits can include reducing your risk for problems like gum disease, tooth decay, and developing TMJ disorder. Because orthodontic treatment does not always have to include traditional metal braces, it can be done in a discreet way that adults may appreciate.
To Benefit Your Smile’s Health
As stated above, straightening your smile can have benefits to your smile’s health as well as your smile’s appearance. Straighter teeth can be easier to clean than crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can overlap and create nooks and crannies that collect bacteria; build-up of harmful bacteria will increase your risk for decay and gum disease. Straightening your teeth can reduce the places that bacteria can hide and thrive. Correcting your bite’s alignment can also help reduce your risk of developing TMJ disorder. Your TMJ (temporomandibular joints) are the hinge joints that give your jaw movement. Misalignment of your teeth or bite can overwork these joints leading to TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder can include chronic pain, constant headaches, grinding your teeth, lockjaw, and jaw popping.
Clear Braces
Many people fear that metal braces will make them look like a teenager. This can be worrisome and and concerning if you are not a teenager. You may worry that straightening your smile with clunky metal braces will negatively impact your personal and professional life. Clear braces can give you a discreet way to straighten your smile. Clear aligners can gently shift your teeth into position all while being discreet and hardly noticeable.
Straightening Your Smile Can Be Beneficial at Any Age
Straighter teeth can be beneficial to both your smile’s health and appearance. Our team at Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City is focused on creating an inviting, comfortable experience each time you visit. To schedule a consultation, call our office in Kansas City, MO, at 816-427-4018.