Looking for a straighter smile? If you’ve never had orthodontic treatment as a teen and are looking for ways to correct your dental alignment, there are options available for adults. It’s never too late to straighten your teeth so you’re confidently sharing your smile with the world. Our dentist in Brooklyn breaks down orthodontics, including its benefits and common concerns patients may have.

 

Why Orthodontics?

Let’s start at the very basics. When it comes to your oral health, it’s essentially a window into your overall health. You may not know it, but if your teeth and gums aren’t properly taken care of, you’re at risk for other health issues. By ignoring certain care, your oral health isn’t the only thing that’s vulnerable, but it is the beginning. With the help of orthodontic treatment, you’re able to ensure proper function of your teeth and maintain a long-lasting and healthy smile.

 

Orthodontics isn’t solely done to improve the aesthetics of your grin. If your teeth are properly aligned, you’ll have an easier time biting, chewing, and speaking. You’ll also have an easier time cleaning your teeth, even the hard-to-reach places in the back, since misaligned teeth give patients a harder time properly maintaining them during their daily routine. Without addressing misalignment in a timely manner, your tooth enamel will wear down in abnormal ways, causing extensive and expensive corrections in your future.

 

When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there is no quick fix, so don’t be fooled by any promotions that promise speed. It’s a complex and intricate process that ensures your teeth are being properly aligned in an efficient and safe method that has been thoroughly studied for years by thousands of dental professionals. It’s more than adjusting your smile – your facial structure is being changed, as well, so everyone’s treatment will be different and unique depending on their case. We encourage patients to ask as many questions as possible about their treatment to ensure comfort, expectations, and results.

 

Age and Orthodontic Treatment

One of the most well-known recommendations when it comes to orthodontic treatment is to receive care as early as possible. The American Association of Orthodontists recommend that children have their first check-up with an orthodontist no later than the age of 7. This age is chosen because kids have enough permanent teeth for orthodontists to evaluate their developing teeth and jaw, finding enough information to decide what the next best step is. Orthodontists are also able to monitor children’s developing teeth and jaw over time and make sure that either things are going in the right direction or that treatment is necessary.

 

If you’re well past the age of 7 and haven’t had any orthodontic treatment, you may be thinking: well, what next? Thankfully, adults’ teeth can be moved, too. Our dentist in Brooklyn wants patients not to feel discouraged from receiving orthodontic treatment at any age since there are always options available. One of the biggest differences between kids and teens getting orthodontic treatment compared to adults is the length of treatment time – since adults are no longer growing, their teeth may take longer to be properly shifted in the correct place. Like we’ve mentioned, everyone’s smile is different, so don’t be afraid to ask any and all questions and concerns you have to ensure all of your inquiries are addressed.

 

Still wondering if orthodontics is the right step for your smile this Summer? Call our dentist in Brooklyn today at (718) 636-8552 to learn more and see how your smile can get more than just an aesthetic upgrade with the help of orthodontic treatment.