Remember on the first episode of Ugly Betty when America Ferrera showed up at a fashion magazine’s office in a poncho and wearing adult braces? It seemed funny at the time, and her braces were certainly part of the story line.
But adults wearing braces is not that uncommon anymore, nor should it be cause for teasing or concern. Adult braces might just be the next best thing. Below are four good reasons.
1. It’s affordable
Many adults might have missed out on the opportunity to have braces as children because when orthodontics was first emerging, it was expensive.
Parents might not have wanted to spend the money on a new medical service or they just couldn’t afford it. With dental plans today, many adults can afford their own braces.
2. It’s more than cosmetic
Teeth that are misaligned can put you at greater risk for plaque build-up and food getting stuck between the teeth. Over time, this in turn means a greater risk for peridontal and gum diseases.
Also, if teeth are severely misaligned, this can make it difficult for a person to chew food properly, and that can lead to all sorts of gastrointestinal issues. Even if the work is cosmetic, there isn’t any shame in that. Many people know that a stunning smile can be a great way to get ahead in your personal and professional life.
It might sound shallow, but that’s the way the world works. Feeling confident about your smile is a great way to to raise your quality of life.
3. Clear braces are now an option
Some cases of teeth crookedness can be cured with clear braces or “Invisalign.” This technology is leading more adults to choose to get braces because the stigma is lessened. Adults with braces could probably stand to face some embarrassment or ridicule, but with clear braces the issue may not even arise.
4. Even “traditional” adult braces are not as bulky
You know that look that kids get, when you can tell they have braces even when their mouth is closed? Their lips jut out?
Orthodontists have worked to reduce the obvious appearance of braces, especially in adults. They use smaller hardwear as the technology becomes more and more advanced, and most adults opt for less color in their braces.
In middle school, it’s all about the color bands you pick: kids coordinate their favorite colors, their school colors, their homecoming dress color, you name it. Adult braces can be more subtle than that.
