Many parents know when their children should get their first orthodontic exam. Ideally, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven. However, when is the appropriate time to get orthodontic care as an adult?
When Should an Adult Seek Orthodontic Care?
Perhaps asking yourself a few questions will narrow down if you are a good candidate for orthodontic intervention. For example:
- Do you tend to cover your mouth with your hand when you smile?
- Do you feel self-conscious or unattractive around strangers because your smile is not as beautiful as you want it to be?
- Do you have difficulties chewing, biting, or speaking?
- Do you clench or grind your teeth?
- Does your jaw make noises or sounds as it moves?
- Are your teeth overcrowded or unevenly spaced, making them more challenging to keep clean?
If so, then now may be the best time for you to see an orthodontist!
Reasons for adults to get orthodontic treatment
Perhaps you were under the impression that orthodontics is just for children. Not so! According to the American Association of Orthodontists, approximately one in every five patients seen in today’s orthodontic offices are adults. There are numerous reasons why more adults are getting orthodontic treatment.
People of all ages can experience successful orthodontic treatment. Compliance is not usually as challenging in older patients, and they typically take better care of their braces or other orthodontic devices. And now that clear aligners, translucent brackets, and lingual braces are an option for most people who undergo orthodontic intervention, it is harder to tell who is wearing orthodontic appliances. If the appearance of metal braces concerns you, be sure to inquire about less-visible alternatives.
Of course, it is not only about looks. It concerns good dental hygiene, as well. Correctly-aligned teeth are much easier to clean and maintain than overcrowded or unevenly spaced teeth. Teeth in their proper alignment are also less subject to abnormal wear. An aligned and even bite prevents troubles with eating and speaking, and helps keep your teeth healthy so that they last a lifetime.
Adults also get orthodontic treatment to repair damage from trauma or injury. Events that can lead to damages needing orthodontic services include:
- Car, truck, tractor-trailer, bicycle, pedestrian, and motorcycle accidents
- Slip or fall injuries
- Violent assaults or attacks
- Product defects
- Any trauma that impacts the mouth or head
People who have been victims of these kinds of harm have the right to seek compensation for their injuries. That can include a monetary award to cover medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. If this has happened to you, do not delay in contacting the appropriate dental professionals and a personal injury attorney.
Lawyers and dental providers can work together to build a case against the person who committed the negligence, carelessness, recklessness, or wrongful conduct. You may not have to worry about the financial stress involved in covering the costs of your dental or orthodontic care when you know that compensation is on its way. To find out more, contact an orthodontist, like the office of John Redmond Orthodontics for a consultation.
