Misaligned teeth are not just an aesthetic concern. In severe cases, they can result in difficulties in articulation, tooth and gum disease, or even jaw problems. To combat this issue, several treatments have been made available for specific needs. One of the most common misalignment correction treatments is the application of adult braces. They are reliable ways in solving orthodontic issues, but they require serious commitment. Keep reading to discover the seven things you must consider before getting adult braces.

• There might be adjustments to your diet.

Although braces are made of durable materials, it’s still important to take proper care of them. One of the steps in ensuring that there won’t be damage to your braces is by eliminating certain food that can break or get stuck in the brace components. This includes hard food such as candies and nuts or sticky food like caramel and chewing gum. 

• Your oral hygiene routine will be more essential than ever.

Getting braces makes little difference in the fact that brushing and flossing is crucial to your overall health. However, you might experience difficulty in doing a thorough clean with the braces in the way, possibly resulting in plaque build-up or other dental concerns. When you get your braces done, make sure to ask your dental care team for proper brushing and flossing instructions to avoid these periodontal issues.

• Adult braces are a serious commitment.

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to braces. On average, treatment length typically falls between 16-18 months but the exact period will vary depending on the specific case. You will also have to schedule a visit to your orthodontist every 4-6 weeks for adjustments. 

• You might get a minor speech impediment.

Braces might cause you to develop a slight lisp due to tongue crowding and air vibrations caused by the hardware on the braces. However, it’s important to note that these speech impairments are only temporary. If you’re feeling conscious about your speech, you can make use of articulation practice sheets to improve how you speak.

• Slight discomfort might be experienced during the treatment.

Mild discomfort or slight pain is a normal side effect of getting braces. You might experience these issues after the initial placement or right after every adjustment. Soreness doesn’t usually last for extensive periods, but you might consult your dentist for easy solutions to alleviate pain or for a pain relief prescription when needed.

• Braces could cause a slight change in your appearance.

Undergoing orthodontic treatment can alter your appearance slightly. Aside from the positive changes it will bring to your smile, your lips might jut out and look more pronounced due to the hardware at the front of your teeth. The position of your jaw will also see an improvement in position caused by the shifting of your teeth.

• Adult braces might be costly.

You get what you pay for when it comes to braces and other dental treatments. Since braces are specific to a patient’s case, mass production is not possible and high-grade materials can be costlier than their lower-quality alternatives. You will also want to make sure that you’re getting your adult braces from a certified orthodontist that is highly-experienced in the application of adult braces to ensure that you get the best quality care. The treatment process can definitely be expensive overall, but they’re definitely worth the investment. 

Getting a clear set of expectations about the treatment can make the whole experience much easier. You might encounter inconveniences during your treatment period, but the numerous benefits are definitely worth the investment. For more information on adult orthodontics and other dental care procedures, schedule a consultation at any American Dental Clinic branch in Dubai or Abu Dhabi today.