Posted on March 17, 2023
If you’re an adult and think that your teeth are crooked, crowded, or misaligned, it’s never too late to get braces. A study has shown that over 4 million Americans wear braces, and 25% of these individuals are adults who decided to correct their smiles later in life, according to the American Association of Orthodontics. Braces have come a long way in recent years, and your local orthodontist now has more discreet options available to adult patients that were unavailable in the past. If you’re wondering whether or not it’s time to take the plunge and get braces as an adult, here’s what you should know.
Malocclusion, or overcrowding of the teeth, is a common problem that braces can fix. If your teeth are too close together, it can cause a variety of issues that range from difficulty in brushing and flossing to headaches caused by jaw pain. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, your orthodontist may recommend braces.
If your upper teeth protrude outward over your lower teeth, this is known as an overbite. An underbite occurs when your lower teeth extend further than your upper teeth. Additionally, if there are gaps between your teeth causing you to feel self-conscious, braces can close these gaps and help you smile confidently
If your lifestyle has changed and you now want to invest in braces, this is another valid reason for seeking orthodontic treatment. Maybe you recently started a new job and want to make sure your smile looks its best for interviews, or perhaps you’ve just gotten married and want to show off your new smile in your wedding photos. No matter the reason, if you want to upgrade your look with braces, now is the perfect time to do it.
If your misaligned teeth are causing problems with chewing and biting into food, it can be a sign that you should get braces. Many people find it hard to enjoy certain foods or eat certain meals because of how their teeth fit together. For example, a severe overbite may make it harder to bite into a juicy steak or an apple. If this is the case for you, it’s worth looking into braces as an adult.
Braves are no longer just for teens; adults can get in on the fun of straight teeth too! Call Johnson Orthodontics today for a consultation. As your local orthodontist, we are glad to help fix your smile.