You're not alone if you need braces to straighten your teeth. Around four million people in the country have braces. 25% of that amount are adults. 

Many people think that children benefit the most from orthodontic services, but that's not always the case. Both adults and children can improve their oral health and achieve a healthy smile with the help of orthodontic care. 

There are a few differences between the types of treatments children and adults receive at the orthodontist. This blog will discuss the main treatment options for each age group. We'll also talk about the benefits of making an appointment with an orthodontist.

What Are the Orthodontic Treatment Options for Kids and Adults?

There are many overlaps when it comes to braces for kids and adults. The option you choose depends on the age of the patient, your budget, and your goals. 

Traditional or Ceramic Braces

Traditional braces utilize a combination of wires and brackets that get attached to your teeth. Your orthodontist will use elastic bands to help move your teeth and correct your bite. Braces treatment typically follows the following timeline:

• Diagnosis and consultation
• Brace fitting and placement
• Adjustments every few weeks
• Treatment
• Retainer phase

The duration of time for which you need to wear braces depends on the specific condition of your mouth.

Invisalign®

Invisalign or clear aligners are a great solution for adults wanting to straighten their teeth. Some older teens might be suitable candidates for this option. 

Invisalign is comprised of clear plastic shells that snap over the teeth. They gently apply pressure to your teeth, slowly moving them into place. They can fix a wide range of issues, such as:

• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crowded or cramped teeth
• Gapped teeth

Your orthodontist will let you know if they believe clear aligners are an option for you. 

What Are the Advantages of Orthodontic Services for Adults?

You shouldn't have to live with a smile that you're not happy with. Braces can give you straight teeth while improving your mouth's health. 

Improved Brushing

Most people brush their teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. It can be challenging to reach certain parts of your teeth if you're dealing with:

• Crooked teeth
• Overlapping
• Overcrowding 

On top of straightening your teeth, braces can make it easier for you to keep them clean. More of your teeth's surface will be shown as they get straightened and moved into place. You'll be able to brush away plaque, keeping your teeth clean and healthy. 

Better Digestion 

Your teeth won't have as much space and gaps once they're straightened by braces. Fixing the spacing between your teeth will make it easy for you to chew your food. Your mouth can break food particles into smaller pieces, making them easier for your body to digest. 

Some people's bites can affect how they chew their food. For example, it can be painful for those with a major bite problem to chew. Braces for adults can correct your jawbone alignment and prevent wearing it down. 

Fresher Breath

Bacteria can begin to build up when your teeth are crooked and overcrowded. As we mentioned earlier, it's hard to keep your teeth clean when you can't brush them properly. Food particles can get trapped between your teeth, making flossing and brushing less effective. 

Get rid of bad breath culprits by seeking orthodontic services. Not only will your teeth get straighter, but you'll also learn different ways to improve your oral hygiene. 

Smoother Speech

How you pronounce words has a lot to do with how your tongue hits your teeth. Not having properly aligned teeth can affect how you speak as a child and adult. You might whistle or pronounce words differently. 

Lowered Tooth Injury Risk

Many adults might be interested to know that getting braces as an adult can decrease the risk of getting tooth trauma. Certain things can cause a cracked or chipped tooth, such as:

• Teeth grinding
• Poor hygiene
• Trauma to the face
• Sports
• Accidents
• Bad bite
• Cavities

Tooth injuries are more likely to occur if a tooth protrudes more than the neighboring ones. Having straight teeth keeps all of them in alignment. You're less likely to damage your teeth when this happens. 

What Are the Advantages of Orthodontic Services for Children?

There are many benefits of pursuing early orthodontic treatment for your child. Set them up for success by working with an orthodontist at a young age. 

Preventing Future Problems

One of the main reasons kids get braces at a young age is to prevent dental problems from arising. Their orthodontist can address certain problems before they occur or get worse.

For example, correcting overcrowded teeth or misalignment may prevent your child from needing more extensive treatment when they're older. Doing early intervention treatment will save you money and time. It'll also reduce the amount of discomfort they experience from undergoing more complex treatments. 

Improve Self Esteem

Early orthodontic treatment can have a positive impact on a kid's confidence. Children may feel self-conscious and get teased if they have an abnormal bite or crooked teeth. Getting their teeth straightened early can improve their overall well-being and social interactions. 

Increase Their Jaw Health

Gaps between teeth mean that the nearby teeth won't have any support. Your child's gums and jawbone will start to erode if this problem isn't addressed. A misaligned bite can also put too much pressure on their jawbone. 

Your child's mouth will start functioning better as their teeth get straightened. Their jawbone will rebuild and strengthen as all their teeth are supported. 

Their orthodontist will also use the natural development and growth of their jawbone to create a healthy bite. They won't have to worry about developing bite problems as they age as their teeth are put in the proper position at a young age. 

Book an Orthodontic Visit at Greenway Village Dental

It's never too late or early to start exploring straightening your teeth. Having straight teeth will do more than give you a confidence boost. Increase your overall oral hygiene by investing in your smile. 

Whether you're looking for orthodontic services for yourself or your child, Greenway Village Dental is here to assist. We offer a wide range of services, including general dentistry and orthodontic services. Call our office in Clemmons today to get added to our schedule.