Adult Orthodontic Patients Increase By 30% In The USA
The number of adults having orthodontic treatments in the USA has increased by 30 per cent over the course of the last 15 years.
In the past, braces were associated with teenagers, but figures show that more and more adults are having treatment to straighten their teeth and improve the look of their smile. The American Association of Orthodontics claims that adult braces have become increasingly popular because treatments are more widely available, there is a larger range of treatments and people are more conscious of the appearance of their smile.
Orthodontists generally advise patients to have treatment as early as possible; however, it is never too late for treatment and the fact that more adults are taking the plunge and getting braces is a positive thing. Many people choose to have treatment for aesthetic reasons, but orthodontic problems have other implications for the mouth; they can increase the risk of oral diseases, affect speech and contribute to jaw pain.
Adult treatment has become very popular because there is now a huge range of treatments; gone are the days when a train-track is the only option. Adult patients can choose from removable appliances, fast-acting fixed braces and invisible brace systems, which straighten your teeth without anyone even knowing that you are wearing braces.
Putting off treatment is likely to make any existing problems worse, as the mouth is constantly developing and changing shape, which causes the teeth to shift slightly. Orthodontics treatment can help to straighten the teeth and improve the alignment of the teeth and jaw joint, which may also enhance facial aesthetics.
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