As a child, you may have seen classmates and friends wearing braces. But as an adult, you may have doubts about whether or not it’s time to get your own. Other types of braces include lingual braces, which are placed on the backside of your teeth and are more difficult to see than traditional metal braces, and clear aligners, which are removable and virtually invisible when worn. These options work well for adults who want to correct their smiles but aren’t ready to commit to a more permanent treatment. The cost of Invisalign of these options varies by patient, and many dental insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of orthodontic treatments.

Many adults are encouraged by the cosmetic benefits of a straighter smile. But crooked teeth can also cause other problems that are often overlooked.

Improved Oral Health

Traditional braces, consisting of wires and metal brackets, are one of the most effective treatment options for adults, particularly when treating severe misalignment or bite problems. They are also the most visible option, but there are ways to minimize their appearance.

Crooked teeth can create spaces where food becomes trapped, increasing the risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Straightening them with braces reduces the likelihood of these issues and makes it easier to keep teeth clean.

Adults who undergo orthodontic treatment can also benefit from improved digestion and nutrient absorption. This is because properly aligned teeth help break down food before entering the digestive tract. This is especially important for older adults who have weakened or missing teeth and may suffer from gastrointestinal issues like constipation, reflux, or indigestion. Braces can also alleviate jaw pain and tension headaches caused by misalignment and poor bite function. By correcting these issues, adults can enjoy reduced stress and a more comfortable life.

Better Speech

Having braces or aligners can help you speak more clearly. This improvement in speech is because crooked teeth can cause misalignment of the tongue and lips. In turn, this can interfere with pronunciation and articulation. In addition, having a straighter smile will help you chew better, which helps in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients.

While some adults may experience a lisp as they get used to their new braces, this typically improves within a few weeks. For those who are concerned about this, we offer clear ceramic braces that function like traditional metal braces with the added benefit of being less conspicuous.

In addition to helping your oral health, straight teeth are also easier to brush and floss, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum diseases. Schedule a consultation with our orthodontist to learn more about the benefits of adult braces. Our Queens, NY, orthodontist will carefully examine your mouth and recommend the best treatment option for your needs.

Reduced Risk of Tooth Trauma

Teeth are more likely to fracture or chip when they’re crooked, which can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health problems. Straightening your teeth with braces can reduce your risk of these issues and make it easier to maintain healthy, beautiful teeth.

Most orthodontic patients receive conventional metal braces, which consist of wires and metal bands that wrap around each or most of your teeth. These are the most visible type of orthodontic appliance, although a newer option swaps the traditional metal for clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets.

Better Appearance

Many adults who receive braces find that they have an increased self-esteem and that their smiles inspire confidence in their professional and social interactions. A straight smile also makes a strong first impression on employers and can open doors to new opportunities.

Crooked and crowded teeth can be harder to clean, making them more susceptible to cavities and gum disease. Adult orthodontic treatments correct these issues and allow for easier cleaning and reduced risk of dental complications in the future.

Metal braces are the most popular treatment option for adults, but there are other options to consider. These include ceramic braces, which are made of clear materials to blend in with the natural color of your teeth, lingual braces, which fit behind your teeth, and clear aligners, which are removable and virtually invisible while you wear them. Contact our Huntington orthodontist today to learn more about your treatment options. We can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!