Who Needs Braces?
Parents, teens, and adults all may wonder if braces are really necessary. Sometimes it’s obvious that orthodontics would benefit the patient, and in other cases it’s not so clear. Braces really are something that each individual or family must decide whether to pursue, of course with input from an orthodontist. However, there are some circumstances where braces are usually the ideal solution.
The main goal of treatment is to not only improve the patient’s appearance, but also to obtain a healthy bite. Every person’s mouth is different, which means treatment will vary and so will the results. That’s a good thing though, because everyone wants their own individual smile.
Aside from the cosmetic benefits that wearing braces will provide, there are some important reasons that some people will medically benefit from treatment. Problems in the way teeth are aligned can cause serious dental issues, which can worsen over time. If a patient’s teeth has slight crowding or gaps, these are the cases that may or may not need braces depending on the person’s desires. More serious cases are when the upper or lower jaw is out of alignment, and braces can really be important.
When the lower or upper jaw protrudes forward, a number of problems can result. These may include jaw pain, tooth decay, gum disease, speech impediments, teeth grinding or clenching, or difficulty eating and chewing. Patients may not even realize these types of issues can be linked to jaw misalignment. By moving the patient’s jaws and teeth through the use of braces, an orthodontist can help reduce or eliminate these types of problems that patients experience.
There isn’t always a definite answer, just as all patients have varying opinions about treatment. The key is to work together with an orthodontist, express goals, and agree upon a customized plan for treatment.
If you need braces in Sherman Oaks, contact our office to schedule an appointment.
