At some point, many people will
have to wear orthodontics. Studies have found that 33 percent of people the
world have worn dental braces or Invisalign, the clear retainer alternative to
traditional metal brackets, at some point in their lives. Between 1982 and
2008, there was a 99 percent increase in the amount of folks who wore them! For
many, especially teenagers at a self-conscious point in their lives, there's
always the question of why the braces are a necessity.
Throughout our childhoods, we
lose our baby teeth. As this happens, the permanent teeth that come in to
replace them might grow in crooked or overlapped. You might also develop an
underbite or an overbite. Although this does not happen to everyone, a majority
of people's teeth will not come in perfectly straight. These traits are
inherited, and it is very likely that if you find yourself needing braces,
you're far from the only one in your family to be in that position.
You might be fine with your
unique smile. However, having a misaligned bite can cause a lot of unnecessary
wear and tear on your teeth over time. Improperly aligned teeth can be much
harder to brush and floss properly, and as time passes you will run the risk of
developing oral health problems like gingivitis and cavities. This can also
lead to poor digestion, as having an orderly bite means your food gets broken
down into more manageable pieces. If left untreated, you also run the risk of
developing more serious facial problems. The roof of your mouth also changes
its shape with the passing of time, and improperly positioned teeth can lead to
breathing problems down the line.
If you're self-conscious about
how braces will affect your experience, you are far from alone. Adults and
teenagers alike worry that their peers will perceive them differently. Adults
in particular often worry that having braces will make them look juvenile. That
is where alternatives to traditional metal brackets come in. Many orthodontists
can fit their patients with clear brackets, making it less visible on the teeth
without hindering their actual effectiveness. You may also be able to choose
Invisalign, which are clear and custom fitted to your teeth. They're adjusted
as your teeth change shape, just like you would go in from time to time to get
your braces tightened to keep them effective.
While you might not be happy
about the thought of your pending orthodontic procedure, it's not as bad as it
might seem. In the long run, you'll gain a lovely smile and be spared future
health problems. Remember, you are not alone when it comes to orthodontia. Odds
are, you won't have to look far to find someone that will have tips and tricks
to make your Invisalign feel invisible.
When considering Invisalign Everett, WA residents visit Puget Park Dental.
