Welcome to another edition of Friday Focus. This is Dr. O from E&S Orthodontics, your Phoenix Orthodontist. Today I want to clarify that, despite many misperceptions, orthodontic treatment is not just for children.
The answer to the question – “Am I too Old for Braces?” – is this: If you don’t like your smile, regardless of your age, you should consider orthodontic treatment.
At our practice here in Phoenix, we see many adult patients because there are no age limitations for an individual to consider orthodontic treatment. If you find yourself shielding your mouth when you smile, you could be the perfect candidate for orthodontic treatment, regardless of your age. E&S Orthodontics regularly helps people between the ages of 40 and 70 improve their smile and dental health. Actually, we have a patient who is 74!
The Biological Process
It’s important to understand that the basic biological process that causes teeth to move is the same in all healthy individuals – regardless of their age. Most people don’t realize that adult teeth move almost as easily as children’s teeth. Once the teeth have moved to their new positions, a stable bite is created along with improved alignment for bridges, implants or future crowns if needed. Bottom line: the periodontal environment is greatly improved with orthodontics, thereby increasing the longevity of your teeth.
Braces can Enhance Good Health at Any Age
Improving the function and look of your bite and smile pays lifelong dividends. Even a minimal amount of crowding can cause periodontal problems because it makes cleaning teeth difficult.
When your teeth are straight and perfectly aligned, it’s easier to floss, brush and take care of your teeth at home, and it’s easier for your hygienist when it comes to that trip to your dentist. You will enjoy the many benefits of good dental health.
The last thing anyone wants to deal with is a problem caused by poor dental health – like bone and gum loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear on the tooth enamel, jaw joint and painful headaches.
It’s important to note that, at later stages in life, orthodontic treatment can help alleviate many of these problems while dramatically enhancing your personal appearance and self-esteem. Because life expectancies have increased, the challenge isn’t just living longer, it’s maintaining quality of life. Good dental health needs to play an important part in your overall health and wellness plan.
You Have Options
Orthodontic care has come a long way. There’s no longer one treatment option when it comes to straightening your teeth. Today, thanks to a wide range of patient options in fixed and removable braces, treatments are easier to deal with and can be custom tailored to every person’s circumstances. In addition, we provide many payment options to make it affordable enough to fit any budget.
Orthodontic treatment can have a positive impact on your life, regardless of how old or how young you may be. If you’ve been considering seeing an orthodontist but thought you may be too old, think again.
In summary, it’s never too late to improve your smile. If you’d like to learn more about your options, we invite you to contact E&S Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation.
