The practice of self care has been trending for some time now. It is basically taking time and putting in the effort to make your physical and mental health a priority.
Women, especially, tend to care for others before they make it a priority to care for themselves. One area of self-care you may not have focused on is oral health.
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums should be a lifelong goal. This includes brushing, flossing and check-ups at your dentist’s office every six months. Oral health has long been known to be linked to overall health.
It is important to stay ahead of any issues like cavities and gum disease by keeping a check up appointment for a cleaning and a review by your dentist.
Many adults think if they weren’t able to get braces as a teen to straighten their teeth there must not be much point in doing it now. This could not be further from the truth! One of the growing trends in cosmetic dentistry is adult braces.
Not only will a new and improved smile impact your professional and personal life, it will also benefit your health. Straightening your teeth has a number of health benefits. When your teeth don’t work properly or fit together well, it leads to problems, according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
How can I tell if Braces will Benefit Me?
One big benefit of braces for adults is straightened teeth which are much easier to clean. Those easier to clean teeth will have less cavities and possible gum disease making your smile healthier. A bright ready smile keeps you looking younger and feeling confident.
Any of these issues are a reason, other than cosmetics, to see your dentist immediately for a braces evaluation:
- Misaligned teeth
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Difficulty flossing in between teeth
- Gaps in your teeth
- An overbite or underbite
- Teeth that don’t meet when your mouth is closed
- Noises or clicks from your jaw
- Pain or tiredness with chewing
What are the Options for Adult Braces?
The primary types of braces are metal or Invisalign. Metal braces are much sleeker than options offered in the past and they are more comfortable. This type requires a checkup with your dentist or orthodontist about every six weeks for adjustments.
The parts for metal braces are molar bands, wires and brackets which work together to move your teeth. They are visible while you have them on for treatment but they are also the most affordable.
Invisalign braces are clear liners which have to be changed out every few weeks. Clear trays are used to make a mold of your mouth at your first visit. Each new set has adjustments made which will gradually straighten your teeth.
Invisalign braces are an option for most adults, but an evaluation is required to make sure. A big advantage with this type of braces is the clear liners can be taken out of your mouth to brush your teeth and eat.
The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that 38 percent of adults say life is less enjoyable due to the condition of their teeth.
Another survey showed that when adults meet someone with an unattractive smile due to teeth issues, they believe the person is less educated and unsuccessful. Discussing how you feel about your smile with your dentist could lead to big changes for you.
It may be time to invest in something that is important to you and your self care. A straight, healthy smile impacts your life in many ways. Your oral health will improve.
You will gain confidence while looking younger and this will lead to more enjoyment in your professional and personal life.
