Braces aren't just for kids anymore! Regardless of your age, if you've always wanted to smile with confidence, but knowing that your teeth were less than perfect held you back, getting braces might be the solution you've been looking for. A straight smile can do so much for your self-esteem.
Benefits Beyond Beauty
In addition to the aesthetic benefits of orthodontic treatment, there are many health benefits as well. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean and function more optimally when it comes to eating and speaking.
Signs You Might Need Braces
If you recognize any of these signs in your child or yourself, it might be time to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist:
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Mouth breathing
• Sucking the thumb or fingers, or other oral habits
• Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
• Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude, or are recessed
• Speech difficulty
• Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
• Protruding teeth, teeth that meet in an abnormal way, or teeth that don't meet at all
• Grinding or clenching of teeth
• Inability to comfortably close lips
Taking the Next Step
An orthodontist will be able to assess your orthodontic needs during your appointment and explain all the wonderful benefits you can expect to receive during your time in braces. Whether you're a child, teen, or adult, it's never too late to achieve the smile you've always wanted.
