Benefits and Downsides of Adult Braces
Often braces are considered as more applicable among teenagers and children. Rarely do older people think they could use braces. Even people approaching their twenties only consider braces if they have never used them while younger or have gotten into an accident that damaged their teeth later in life. Unknown to many, however, there is an increasing number of adults making an informed decision to enhance the health of their teeth by wearing adult braces. Statistics are revealing this growing trend. 33% of all braces are worn in adult’s mouths.
Health risks arising from crooked teeth
Whatever the reason an adult needs braces, it is not advisable to allow orthodontic or dental problems remain untreated. Highlighted herein are some of the risks that could emanate from uneven teeth, overbites, underbites, poor jaw positions, and overcrowding.
- Headaches
- Facial pain
- Irregular shape of tooth enamel
- Bone and gum erosion
- Rising periodontal diseases and tooth decay problems
- Difficulties cleaning the teeth hence resulting to food accumulation and plaque between teeth
- Jaw pain
- The inability to properly chew food can result to gastrointestinal problems
- Biting, speaking, and chewing problems
- Earaches
- TMJ disorders
Most adults think of braces as incredible alternatives for their long term dental health. In order to enjoy extended periods with improved physical and oral health, a few years with the occasional discomfort, expense, and awkwardness of braces are worth the wait.
Benefits of wearing braces
Braces are beneficial in many ways. Some of the advantages of wearing braces include:
Dental correction: Braces conveniently correct dental flaws such as protruding jaws and buck teeth. Braces are also used in aligning crooked jaws. It is said also that braces assist in the strengthening of gums with an objective of making it strong enough to hold teeth in position. Braces also help in the prevention of gap formation between teeth since it helps align each tooth into position. Eventually the teeth get properly aligned hence the brace wearer doesn’t have to contend with poor looking teeth.
Overall oral health: Generally the dental health improves with the use of braces due to their ability to realign teeth and give aesthetic value to the smile within a limited time of wearing them.
Disadvantages of braces
Wearing braces causes dental patients to endure pain and discomfort especially when they are being installed. The metal frame used in making of the braces inflicts some level of pain. The sensitivity of the teeth is propagated by the grinding metal frame used in brace making.
The embarrassment of wearing the braces as an adult cannot escape the wearer as well. There are new alternatives to metal braces. Ceramic braces and plastic braces are far more comfortable to be seen in than metal braces. This said, however, using metal braces is much more advisable because of their durability and ability to last for longer.
Some dentists have suggested clear braces invisible to human eyes. The option of having removable and fixed braces is also being explored.
