You’re Never Too Old for Braces

Not so very long ago if your dentist in North Harrow had suggested that you wear a brace to straighten your teeth you would have shied away in horror. “But I’m a grown-up” you would have been thinking… “and only children or teenagers wear braces.”

The good news is that thanks to advances in dental technology orthodontics for adults is faster and more discreet than ever. Patients are now able to choose from a wide range of invisible braces and aligners which do the same job as traditional metal braces, but do it in such a manner that only you and your orthodontist in North Harrow need ever know that you’re having orthodontic treatment.

Improved oral hygiene

Most adults consider wearing braces as a means of simply getting their teeth straightened so that they don’t feel self conscious when they smile. From a dentist’s point of view, aesthetics is the least of their problems and what’s more important is that the brace will improve their long-term oral hygiene since teeth will be easier to clean and there’s less chance of food getting trapped, plaque forming, and eventual tooth decay and possible tooth loss.

Not all braces suit everyone

When it comes to choosing a brace then you’ll be guided by your dentist since not ever type of brace is suitable for everyone. It may be that you have more complex dental issues which require a conventional style of brace, but even these are now available with tooth coloured ceramic brackets and wires, which are aesthetically more pleasing. Lingual (or invisible) braces fit behind the teeth and are an option for adults who don’t want anyone to see their brace. They’re fully customised for each individual, including the wires and take a while longer to make than other types of braces. However they’re not ideal for those with a narrow jaw since they can take up some of the space for the tongue, adding to a feeling of claustrophobia. Finally, the third choice is a clear brace or aligner. The most well known of these is probably the Inman Aligner. The patient wears a clear aligner which fits over the teeth and is virtually invisible. They work by gently moving the teeth into their correct position with a new aligner being worn at different stages of the treatment. They do need to be worn full time although they are removed for drinking and eating and for cleaning. The advantages of invisible and clear braces is that typically they work faster than conventional braces and if you’re an adult, they won’t interfere with your lifestyle.

If you need teeth straightening in North Harrow then you’re never too old. Why not come at talk to us at Imperial Dental Care. We can assess your teeth and discuss your best options. Call us today on 020 8427 2264 or take a look at our website at www.imperialdentalcare.co.uk for more information.