DENTAL DILEMMAS. Dr Paul Sobocinski from Synergy Dental Clinics helps with advice on dental problems.
Q. Are braces just for children or can adults have them?
A. Braces are no longer just an option for children or teenagers but can be useful at any age. Natural growth and overall health can have an effect on teeth, causing them to move, and many people experience crooked or overcrowded teeth during adulthood. So, for health and cosmetic reasons, the number of adults seeking braces is on the rise.
Even celebrities are sporting braces like a new fashion statement. If you have crooked teeth and didn’t have braces as a child, the good news is that it’ s never too late to fix misaligned teeth and improve your smile. You may even be suffering from jaw pain, and braces are the obvious answer to correct your bite. If you are considering dental implants, your teeth need to be straight before treatment begins, so, again, braces may be a necessity. Misaligned teeth can trigger other dental problems like periodontal disease or gum disease; this can occur when food gets trapped between overcrowded teeth and plaque builds up.
Overcrowded teeth may also encourage headaches or earaches, and an inadequate bite may lead to gastrointestinal problems if food isn’t chewed properly. Braces have come a long way since their invention. They are more comfortable than their metal predecessors and require less time to fit. Modern braces are also barely noticeable. It’ s worth remembering that the straightening effects of braces can be more remarkable in adult teeth due to the careful maintenance routine that adults tend to follow, giving beautiful healthy teeth to a ripe old age.
For more information about dental problems, contact Synergy Dental Clinics Bolton or Bury, e-mail bury@synergydental.org.uk or go to synergydental.org.uk/dentist-in-bury