| Allan I. Abolafia, D.D.S. |  |
Allen W. Ackerman, D.D.S. |
| THE TOOTH TRIBUNE |
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It’s Never Too Late For a Great Smile: Braces For Grownups American Health Magazine recently reported a surprising statistic. Nearly 25% of all orthodontics patients are adults. Of that number, 70% are women. Most adults get braces for cosmetic reasons. It’s usually the case that orthodontic treatment was “overlooked” in childhood, but now those patients have the financial means that allows them to have the work done. The numbers have risen steadily since that survey. Besides aesthetic concerns there are also some dental conditions that call for orthodontic treatment. Crowded teeth, for example, are much more prone to decay. Lack of adequate spacing between teeth, makes cleaning more difficult and may result in gum disease. A “bad” or unaligned bite may eventually lead to tooth loss. Such conditions can be alleviated by orthodontic treatment. Adult orthodontics is not always as simple as the same treatment in children. Adult jaws have stopped growing and unfortunately that may limit treatment options that would be available to children. Periodontal disease, often a problem in adulthood, and the need for restorative work can often increase the length of orthodontic treatment. The good news is that braces today are far more comfortable and flexible than they once were. As a rule, there are fewer adjustments required. In the most common type of braces being used today, tiny stainless steel or ceramic brackets are attached to the teeth. A thin wire runs across the front of the teeth. These appliances are far less noticeable than they used to be. Just for fun, braces are even available in colors! If you are considering orthodontic treatment for yourself for cosmetic or other reasons, a visit to your dentist and then a consultation with an orthodontist is in order. There are more and more options becoming available as the technology continues to improve. Your professional dental team can give you the information you need to make an educated decision. Remember: It’s Never Too Late To Have a Beautiful Smile! |