You have had crooked teeth since you were young. Perhaps you and your parents talked about braces when you were a teenager, but it never happened. Now you are well into your adult years and you are comfortable with how you look — so why go through the expense and time now to have them straightened?
There is a good reason to consider orthodontics at any age, improved health. While straight teeth create a beautiful smile, a well-aligned smile allows for proper function of the jaw during speaking, chewing and biting. As with many other areas of life, good form usually makes for good function. When we have crooked teeth, we may not be able to chew our food properly or speak as well as we could if our teeth were aligned properly.
Misaligned bites (malocclusions) can also have an impact on individual tooth health. Because they don’t interact efficiently with their opposing counterparts during chewing or biting, teeth can become loose or migrate further out of alignment. Misaligned teeth are also more frequently chipped or broken due to abnormal forces and wear and tear.
While improvement in oral health is the primary reason for considering treatment for a malocclusion, orthodontics also benefits your appearance. Your smile impacts many aspects of your life, including career and social relationships. A straighter, more attractive smile can also boost your self-confidence: even if you think you’ve grown accustomed to your smile, straightening your teeth could vastly change how you view yourself and how you believe others view you.
If you’re dreading the look and feel of metal braces, orthodontic treatments have made many improvements in the last few decades. Invisalign, for example, is much less noticeable than traditional fixed braces (and can be removed for special occasions), but still effective for moving teeth. Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Virginia also offers clear braces for improved aesthetics. We believe you are never too old for a straight, healthy smile. If you are considering orthodontic treatment and would like a complimentary consultation, request an appointment online or call 804.739.0963.