Orthodontics are not reserved for teenagers alone. Whether you wore braces during adolescence or you’re only just considering orthodontia now, you’re in good company. Plenty of adults decide to see an orthodontist to discuss how they can improve their smile and oral health. In fact, most grown-ups choose Invisalign for adults to get their teeth where they want them to be. Here are just some of the reasons why.
1. You Have Spaces and More Spaces
Teeth move as you get older – it’s part of the aging process. Over time, the miniscule movements become noticeable and annoying. Food gets caught where it never used to stick. Teeth look a little out of place in photos. These are moments when you might ask yourself whether it’s time to invest in orthodontic treatment. Invisalign for adults can be carefully calibrated to correct problems that are causing the spaces between your teeth. The nearly invisible aligners move teeth a few at a time until your entire smile is in alignment and you are no longer self-conscious about how you look.
2. Teeth Grinding Is a Problem
Adulthood stresses are tough to shake. One resolves itself and another appears and then there are the worries that never go away. Teeth grinding is often a side effect of stress and this problem can result in chronic headaches, worn tooth enamel, gum recession, and damaged teeth. A night guard can help, but often it’s the positioning of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or alignment of your teeth that contributes to teeth grinding. Invisalign can help readjust what’s out of whack and eliminate the grinding and clenching problem.
3. Invisalign for Adults Is Discreet and Fast
Most adults who are considering improving their teeth with orthodontics are not interested in any sort of obvious treatment. Invisalign for adults is discreet thanks to the clear, thin trays and, in many cases, the work is done quickly too. Total movement time averages about one year but it depends on how much work needs to be done for your teeth. Treatment could take longer or it could even be shorter – your orthodontist will let you know before you even agree to Invisalign where you’re likely to fall.
4. You Have a Few Missing Teeth
If you have had any tooth extractions but have yet to replace missing teeth, the alignment of your entire mouth is likely to suffer. It is important to realign your smile and correct the movement of any teeth before they cause bigger oral health problems. One of the most efficient ways to make that happen is with Invisalign. The timeline will vary, but your orthodontist and dentist will advise replacing missing teeth as part of your overall dental care.
See an Orthodontist for Invisalign Treatment
If you are interested in learning more about how you can correct the problems afflicting your teeth and smile as an adult, talk to orthodontist Dr. Soleil and her team at Soleil Orthodontics in Woodinville, WA. An orthodontist is the expert who understands the anatomy of teeth, how they move, and what needs to happen to give you a smile that is beautiful, healthy, strong, and pain-free. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
