Braces are used to correct tooth alignment. The treatment duration can take time, but the benefits extend beyond the improved appearance of your smile. It can also boost your oral health and quality of life.

Often, braces are seen in children or young adults. But that doesn’t mean that adults cannot receive them. Even those older than 18 can benefit from braces. If you or a family member needs braces or orthodontic treatment, get started with a complimentary initial consultation.

To provide you with additional information about dental braces, below are some situations in which they are likely to be beneficial.

A Few Signs You Might Need Braces

For adults, it’s important to consider the overall oral health condition. Teeth alignment can still be corrected, but the procedure can vary depending on the patient's age and the severity of the orthodontic issue. You may be a candidate for orthodontic treatment if you have:

• Crooked teeth

• Crowded teeth

• Gaps or spaces between teeth

• Teeth that don’t meet when the mouth is closed

• Difficulties pronouncing certain sounds

• Difficulties brushing or flossing your teeth

• Pain when chewing or biting food

While braces work faster in developing teeth and jawbones, they’re still effective for adults. Even if bones have ceased growing, moving teeth into their ideal position is possible by applying pressure to them. The difference is that it’ll take longer to see results since the bones are less pliant.

Will Braces Work for My Child?

It can be difficult to determine whether a child needs braces, but there are indications you can discuss with an orthodontist. Here are some of them:

• Crowded teeth

• Thumb sucking or pacifier use past the age of 4

• Breathing through the mouth

• Biting the tongue often

• A jaw that makes clicking sounds

• The premature loss of baby teeth

• Teeth that don’t meet when the mouth is at rest

• A family history of misaligned teeth

Even if there are no obvious signs that a child requires orthodontic treatment, consultation with an orthodontist can still be beneficial. This is because the earlier the need for treatment is identified, the earlier counseling or treatments can be started, thus reducing the chances of needing orthodontic appliances.

Also, the optimal age for orthodontic treatment varies from child to child. Some children may need to wait until their permanent teeth start to emerge. Don’t worry about your child receiving treatment right away. It isn’t the case for all children.

Your orthodontist will also inform you if they believe it would be most advantageous for your child to begin treatment early.

Are There Other Alternatives to Braces?

Yes, dental braces are no longer the bulky metal devices you remember from decades ago. 

There are various types of braces, and you can choose one based on your specific requirements. Your orthodontist will inform you of their benefits and drawbacks so that you can make an informed decision regarding your oral health.

In addition to braces, other orthodontic devices can be used to enhance tooth alignment. Some, like Invisalign, don't use metal retainers or wires. Therefore, regardless of your age, consulting an orthodontist to learn more about potential options for improving your smile is beneficial.

Determine Whether Orthodontic Braces Are the Best Choice for Improving Your Smile

If you’re interested in straightening your teeth, an initial consultation with an orthodontist is the ideal starting point. They’ll examine your mouth and oral health to determine the most effective method for correcting misalignment.

You and your orthodontist can devise a customized treatment plan to achieve your desired results, taking into account multiple factors,

If you live in Kitchener, Ontario, or are staying nearby and would like to schedule an orthodontic evaluation, please contact us at Orthodontic Smile Studio.

We’re happy to answer any queries you may have about dental braces, how they work, and whether you're a suitable candidate. Connect with us today. Let’s find out if dental braces are for you!

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