After having braces, the teeth may not stay in place for life, especially for those who don’t use retainers after their initial time wearing braces. Getting braces as an adult is a wise decision that can improve the appearance and health of the smile. Several signs indicate the need for braces as an adult. Those who notice any of these signs have many choices for dental braces in Houston, but Lovett Dental Corpus Christi offers complete care.
1. Teeth Have Moved and Crowded Together
Overcrowded teeth impact the smile and are a common reason behind needing dental braces. Those with overcrowding problems corrected by braces initially could experience the same issues again if they didn’t consistently use a retainer after their original treatment.
2. Gaps Between Teeth Opened
Gaps may open between teeth in some places while others areas of the mouth experience overcrowding. Adult braces can fix this issue caused by the teeth trying to move back to their positions before the original orthodontic treatment.
3. Difficulty with Speaking or Eating
The position of the teeth determines the feel of a bite. However, when teeth move, the alignment of the top and bottom teeth may feel different, causing eating or speaking problems. Bite changes are another indication of the need to seek another round of orthodontic treatment with dental braces.
4. Chronic Teeth Grinding
The mouth often reflects changes in the rest of the body. For instance, stress can appear in some as nightly teeth grinding (bruxism). This condition can wear the surfaces of the teeth down and affect the alignment of the bite or positioning of the teeth. A dentist can let their patient know if they need to consider options for braces due to teeth grinding.
5. Oral Health Problems from Difficulty Cleaning Around Teeth
Teeth that move in the mouth may not immediately have visible overcrowding or gaps. However, if oral care becomes difficult, dental health can decline. For instance, failure to properly clean around or between overcrowded teeth could lead to any of the following:
- Dental decay and cavities (caries)
- Infection in a tooth (abscess)
- Gum disease
- Need for a root canal or tooth extraction
These oral health problems first need attention from a dental professional before starting treatment with adult braces. During orthodontic treatment, patients must carefully follow the instructions for dental care to keep their teeth healthy throughout the time they wear any braces options. However, the need for good dental care is extra important when using ceramic or metal braces, which require extra attention during flossing and brushing for thorough cleaning.
Options for Braces for Adults Who Need to Straighten Their Teeth Again
Those who need adult braces have many choices for straightening their teeth. Traditional dental braces with wire are the first thing that many think about because they likely used these braces as teenagers. Metal braces consist of metal brackets, archwires, and rubber bands to hold the teeth in place. The orthodontist makes adjustments to the tension at sessions during the treatment to slowly move the teeth into their final positions.
Other options include ceramic braces that use materials to blend in with the surrounding teeth and clear teeth aligner trays that don’t use wires or brackets. The last option is a good choice for many adults who need minor adjustments to their smiles. The only way to know which of these options for braces is best is to see an orthodontist.
Contact Us at Lovett Dental Corpus Christi for an Appointment to Find Your Options for Braces
Those who experience any of the above signs of needing adult braces should schedule a visit for an evaluation. Our orthodontic experts can determine the need for dental braces. Plus, they can help patients find the right braces options for them. Contact us at Lovett Dental Corpus Christi for an appointment. Call us at 361-986-1117 or submit our contact form to get in touch with us.