You’ve been thinking about it for a while and you’re just about ready to make the decision: You’re going to straighten your teeth. It feels a little weird to say that as an adult, but you’ve been having some pain in your jaw for a while now and you’re not pleased with your crooked smile. You worry about the cost, but figure it’ll be worth it, right? Besides, they have invisible braces that can hardly be seen these days, and it’s a virtually painless procedure. What else do you need to know before you make a decision?
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Braces Are for All Ages
Braces are no longer just for kids. It’s a lot easier to correct jaw problems if they are fixed in children, as kids’ mouths are still developing and are more accepting of adjustments. But that doesn’t mean adults can’t get braces.
Anyone interested in straightening a smile or working on jaw pain are prime candidates for braces.
Consultations Are Free
Orthodontists will often offer consultations for free if you want to straighten your teeth. It’s the norm for most offices, so if you find yourself in a place of business that wants to charge you to tell you if you’re a candidate for braces, consider heading to a different orthodontist.
Orthodontists Are Experts
Your dentist is great; you’ve been with this person for many years—but an orthodontist he or she is not. Orthodontists are specialists that have trained for many years to become a specialist. They know how to straighten your teeth best because they work in this business every day. Many dentists may know the proper procedures but lack the hours of experience. Do yourself a favour and stick with the specialist.
More Than Just Straight Teeth
Braces are not just about straightening teeth. Though that’s the most common reason, braces can also help with chronic jaw pain, headaches, and other ailments that start with misaligned teeth.
You may not even realize the pain you’ve been experiencing is related to your teeth. That’s part of the reason it’s a good idea to have regular check-ups with an orthodontist. These specialists are very familiar with jaw pain and know how it can be fixed.
Treatment, Cost, and Options
There are many different options for straightening your teeth, each with their own pros and cons. Speak with your orthodontist about which options are best for you. You may walk into an office expecting to get invisible braces, but sometimes that isn’t the best option.
Trust in the specialist and what he or she recommends. Traditional metal braces, while more visible than Invisalign, for example, may create better results. It’s potentially a way to save on costs as well. Remember: your ultimate goal is a healthy, happy smile. Take the best journey to get there.
There Will Be “Pain”
Braces are uncomfortable. This is a much better process than it ever has been before. The procedure itself will just fly by, and you’ll hardly notice anything has happened, but adjusting to braces takes time. The braces are moving your teeth, and that’s going to involve some discomfort. But the slight discomfort now is well worth the final product—a healthy smile you’re proud to show off.
Taking the time to straighten your teeth is a positive thing for you to do. Just make sure you consider your options and learn everything you need to before jumping in with both feet. Afterward, you’ll have a great smile—make sure you’re happy enough you want to show it!
