How Braces Help Keep Your Teeth Healthy As You Age And Options Your Orthodontist Might Recommend

Since it's possible you'll live a long and active life well into your senior years, you want to keep your teeth healthy so they last a lifetime. One thing you may want to consider is getting braces as an adult to correct the positions of your teeth. Here's why this could improve your oral health and what your options are for adult braces.

Why Braces Are Beneficial For Adults

One reason you may want braces is so you have a straight and beautiful smile. However, braces can also help keep your teeth healthy as you age. When your teeth are properly aligned, they're easier to floss and brush, and this can reduce your risk of gum disease and cavities when you're older. Having strong teeth that are aligned properly is important for eating a varied and healthy diet. While bad teeth are unfortunate at any age, bad teeth can be especially troublesome for seniors who may already have a loss of appetite and trouble eating certain foods.

While dentures are a possibility for seniors, nothing works as well as healthy, natural teeth since you'll be able to speak normally without dentures slipping and eat a variety of foods without your teeth popping out. Plus, a full set of straight, white teeth can make you look younger so you look as good as you feel, regardless of your age.

Options For Adults Who Want Braces

You can choose traditional wire braces if you don't mind their appearance in your mouth. However, you might prefer braces that are less visible. First, start by getting an examination by an orthodontist. The orthodontist will then explain the options you have based on the condition of your teeth. You might need traditional wire braces, or clear aligner trays may work. You could also choose ceramic braces that are less visible or braces that attach to the back of your teeth so they are out of sight. No matter what kind of braces you get, you'll probably need to wear a retainer for the long term once the braces are removed to hold your teeth in their new place.

As an adult, you may already have dental work done, such as a crown or missing tooth. Your orthodontist can usually work with these issues by closing the gap between a missing tooth or moving a tooth with a crown. Each person is unique, so your orthodontist will let you know if you need additional dental treatments along with orthodontic treatments to achieve the right alignment for your teeth.

It doesn't matter how old you are now since older age isn't a barrier for getting braces. Instead, your orthodontist considers other factors such as the health and condition of your teeth and gums when determining if braces are right for you.

To learn more about orthodontist services like braces, contact an orthodontist in your area.

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