What is the best time to have orthodontic treatments?
An orthodontic treatment is the best way to improve your smile, fix misaligned teeth or any jaw issue that affects dental health by changing a person’s natural teeth. Even though it is believed that early orthodontic treatment is the best solution, the current trends in the dental industry show that older people are equally choosing to undergo this treatment. If you feel your smile could use a bit of makeover, but you’re not sure when’s the right time, we’ll help you get the correct answer.
Set the foundation for lifelong dental health early on
Dental health issues can be determined at an early age. Children can start wearing braces as early as nine years old. However, this can be even later, for example, 13, depending on how fast the child grows. The first step is to visit a dentist for a consultation, and they will direct the child and the parent to visit an orthodontist.
An orthodontist can best determine jaw development and how it will affect proper teeth alignment or misalignment. Sometimes, the teeth can get overcrowded if there isn’t enough space for permanent teeth. Any proactive decision at an early age will prevent serious problems later in life, such as overcrowding and misalignments.
Children who undergo early orthodontic treatment are more likely to develop healthier dental habits, have healthier teeth, improved oral function, and reduced risks of gum disease and tooth decay as they grow older.
It’s never too late to start an adult orthodontics treatment
If you think you’re too old to get adult braces, you should consider this idea. It appears that there isn’t any age limit to when a person can decide to undergo an orthodontics treatment.
For example, if you’re fifty and feel like fixing your crooked teeth, your only job is finding an experienced orthodontist. Just think, how many times this week have you seen an adult person with braces? Probably at least once a day, if not even more.
Wearing braces as an adult can be even easier than when you’re a kid because it won’t affect you even if you get teased. You’re more emotionally mature as you age so you won’t be triggered by jokes or any comments made by your peers. An orthodontic treatment boosts instant confidence, especially when it’s finalised.
An orthodontic treatment is more than just aesthetics
An orthodontic treatment is not just for aesthetic purposes; it solves several dental health issues. Problems like overbite or underbite can cause facial pain, speech problems, discomfort while chewing, TMJ and headaches.
It’s also recommended for misaligned bites, teeth grinding, overcrowding, misalignment, gum disease, and others. Prevention is always half the cure, so find an orthodontist to help you, no matter where you are. For example, if you are in Australia, visit an orthodontist Penrith is known for, or seek one through friend recommendations.
Even when you decide to undergo orthodontic treatment for health reasons only, the aesthetic result will come naturally.
The psychological effect of orthodontic treatment is not age-specific
When we are happy with our appearance, we exude a different energy. When we’re too self-conscious and always triggered by a particular physical trait, we can wear ourselves differently. So, to exude a different kind of self-confidence, you should consider the psychological impact of having misaligned teeth.
People who smile more are considered more open than those who don’t smile. The lack of a smile often results in low confidence because of a dental health issue like crooked teeth.
After orthodontic treatment, people have increased confidence, and the results are not age-specific, as anyone can wear braces. The psychological benefits of orthodontics extend beyond personal well-being; they can also enhance social interactions and professional opportunities. A smile always leaves a lasting impression on others.
Choose between traditional and modern
We’ve already defined that the earliest you can start wearing braces is at nine, while the oldest is not as explicitly defined. The only prerequisite is that you have your natural teeth. Anyone can choose to wear braces, and there are two different types for those who don’t have a severe misalignment or dental health issue. There’s a modern, almost invisible solution.
Invisalign is suggested to those who don’t want to wear classic braces and can achieve results with clear invisible teeth aligners. This discreet option is suitable for those with a more active lifestyle. However, this will be predetermined by the severity of the issue. If it’s too severe, an orthodontist will advise on the traditional braces.
Traditional metal braces are the classic solution. These are tested, proven time-effective and ideal for many different types of orthodontic treatment. They are adequate as this will be a significant decision that will last a while. So, if you’re ready to spend between one to three years on orthodontic treatment, choose the type that will be effective over the time spent.
It’s worth mentioning that an orthodontic treatment won’t end when you have your braces taken off. Proper aftercare is needed to ensure teeth remain intact and in their new, aligned position. So, don’t forget to get a retainer and commit to a healthy, radiant smile journey.