Three Reasons Older Adults Can Benefit from Braces
Traditionally, braces have been associated primarily with children or teenagers who had little or no say in the matter. However, it is increasingly common for adults to willingly decide to undergo orthodontic treatment. This trend even extends to individuals in their 50s or 60s, ages typically left untreated by orthodontic treatments. Here are just a few ways that older adults might benefit from braces.
1. Braces Can Reverse Damage Caused by Aging
As you get older, it is common to experience a certain level of bone loss. This bone loss can occur anywhere on the body, including your jaw, possibly exasperating existing dental issues or even creating new problems in your mouth.
Jaw bone loss can change the positioning of your teeth and your bite, affecting your speech. A bad bite can cause pain that manifests in areas outside of the mouth area, including headaches. Decreases in jaw bone mass are also associated with lower amounts of gum tissue. Receding gum tissue can cause loose teeth and hasten the development of plaque.
Treatment with braces will return your teeth and bite to their ideal positions, minimizing the lasting implications to your dental health.
2. It's Easier to Clean Teeth with Proper Spacing
Many adults prefer to keep their own teeth as long as possible. One way they can work towards this goal is by maintaining good dental hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing. However, if your teeth are overcrowded, even the best brushing habits won't remove all the plaque.
Plaque buildup can cause a slew of dental issues, including gingivitis, gum disease, and cavities. These dental ills can even cause other health problems, including diabetes and heart disease.
Orthodontic treatment will improve the spacing and the positioning of your teeth so that your brushing and flossing sessions are more effective. Not only can you boost your dental health, but you can also improve your overall level of health.
3. Correct Jaw Alignment and Tooth Space Improves Your Quality of Life
Excessive amounts of pain contribute to a lower quality of life. Some people also find that they have to change their eating or speaking habits because of this constant pain.
If you can minimize the amount of pain that you have due to your dental issues, it makes sense to do so. Though you will have to alter some of your eating and dental hygiene habits for the time that you have your braces, most adults find that it is worth it to do so. When you get your braces off, you are left with straight, pain-free smile that you are proud to show off.