Pros And Cons Of Braces For Teenagers And Adults: People of all ages are affected by crooked teeth. Due to advancements in technology and the affordability of orthodontic braces, teenagers and adults are able to experience the benefits of having straighter smiles by undergoing an orthodontic procedure.
Orthodontics is the practice of making teeth straight. Humans have a long history with orthodontics, with some evidence of the field dating back to antiquity. For centuries, we have been obsessed with straight teeth, associating beautiful smiles with positive feelings and soaring levels of self-confidence. Today, the world of orthodontics offers a wide range of options when it comes to braces from traditional wire braces to nearly invisible trays and alignment systems.
As with anything, however, there are pros and cons of orthodontic braces. These positives and negatives should be considered before seeking a consultation to determine if orthodontic treatment would suit you. Due to the nature of braces and the affect crooked teeth can have on one’s self esteem, it is important to realize that the pros and cons of orthodontic braces can vary between teenagers and adults. Let’s look at what some of those pros and cons might be:
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Pros and Cons for Teenagers
Pros:
- At a delicate time in adolescence, orthodontic braces allow teenagers the opportunity to cultivate confidence within themselves
- Due to a wide range of the types of orthodontic braces available, it is easier for teenager to choose orthodontic braces that can appear invisible, which reduces the chances of bullying as a result of dental work
- At the end of treatment, you will have a better smile
Cons:
- Teenagers can often face bullying from peers as a result of wearing orthodontic braces which can lead to low self esteem
- Because crooked teeth are not solved instantaneously, teenagers often have to wear orthodontic braces for sustained periods of time
- Wearing orthodontic braces can sometimes be a painful experience
Pros and Cons for Adults
Pros:
- Due to a wide range of the types of orthodontic braces available, it is easier for patients to find a treatment plan that best suits their needs and schedule
- At the end of treatment, you will have a better smile
- Patients who have lived their entire lives with crooked teeth, report feeling like a new person once treatment is over
Cons:
- Just as teenagers have, adults who wear orthodontic braces have reported dips in self-confidence and self esteem
- Orthodontic braces do not yield overnight results—your treatment is likely to take a few months at least; consider whether this will interfere with your life
- Wearing orthodontic braces can sometimes be a painful experience