Why Teenagers Need Braces

The idea of getting braces may at first be daunting to a teenager.

But the benefits definitely make it worthwhile.

It may be hard to believe at first but the long-term benefit is a better smile that makes you look great.

Truth is about 70% of US teenagers need braces so, if you look around your class, probably about two out of three of your friends have braces or will have them soon.

Just take a look in the mirror and decide if you like your smile.

Whatever you think now, your orthodontist will make your smile even better.

Think about how much that will boost your social life.

However, it's not just about your smile, there are many health benefits of braces:

- You will be able to chew your food better: When teeth are not straight, you can't chew your food correctly. This can cause an upset stomach.

- You will avoid dental problems: If you do not get orthodontic treatment when you need it, your teeth will be hard to clean and your gums will hurt.

- You may avoid developing a breathing problem: The roof of your mouth can sometimes partially block the air passages in your nose. This causes you to snore loudly and may contribute to a condition called "sleep apnea".

Therefore braces can make a big difference to your life both now and in the future.

Solving the Problem of Bad Bite

Orthodontic treatment is used to correct a 'bad bite'.

Bad bite - also called  malocclusion - occurs when teeth are crowded or crooked.

Sometimes teeth may appear straight but, because the upper and lower jaws do not meet properly, you can have an uneven bite.

Jaw problems and teeth that are protruding, crowded or irregularly spaced can be inherited or may be caused by factors such as accidents or losing teeth prematurely.

Orthodontic treatment leads to a healthier mouth - and an important additional benefit is that it makes you look better by giving you a better smile.

When teeth are crowded or crooked, it is more difficult to clean the mouth properly.

This can lead on to tooth decay, gum disease and even loss of teeth.

When you have an improper bite, chewing and speaking can be more difficult.

This can cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel and can lead to problems with the jaws.

Orthodontic treatment can therefore lead to improvements in your health as well as making you look and feel better.

The Pros and Cons of Invisalign Braces

Invisalign braces have become popular as an alternative to traditional braces as they are cosmetically more appealing.

They are known as "invisible braces" but they actually work in a very different way to the traditional approach.

Rather than using brackets and wires, Invisalign uses aligners to move your teeth into new positions.

These aligners are clear and removable.

In order to use the Invisalign approach, you will have X-rays and molds taken which are then used to help an orthodontist plan your treatment.

The Invisalign aligners are built specifically for your mouth and each aligner is meant to be worn for two weeks. You then move on to the next aligner and the whole process can take about one year.

Pros
Virtually invisible so only you know you are wearing them

Easier to clean than traditional braces

More comfortable than traditional braces so less risk of irritation

Removable so can be taken out for eating or just for a break

Cons
Can be more expensive than traditional braces

Won't work for everybody

Must follow instructions exactly

Teeth are still being moved so some chance of pain

Myths about orthodontists

Here is the truth on some common myths about orthodontists

Myth - Any dentist can straighten my teeth.
Truth - An orthodontist is a specialist at straightening teeth with two or three years of additional training after dental school.
They usually see hundreds of orthodontic patients a year where some family dentists may see only a handful.

Myth - Only children wear braces
Truth - Around 20% of orthodontic patients are adults

Myth - You only need to see an orthodontist for very complex cases.
Truth - Orthodontists have wide experience and deal with all types of orthodontic issue. However, their wide experience means they know exactly what to do in the most complex cases.

Myth - Seeing an orthodontist is more expensive than going to a general dentists for orthodontic treatment.
Truth - They are usually doing different work. An orthodontist offers value as  an expert, highly experienced professional with specific training in this field.

Myth - Braces are painful and take years to work
Fact - Like a new pair of shoes, braces are perfectly comfortable after an initial 'breaking in' or adjustment period. Braces can get results after just a few months.

Myth - Braces are ugly and embarrassing in business settings.
Truth - Today braces can be made from clear plastic and can be nearly invisible. They can also be mounted on the back side of the teeth so that they are not visible.