Everyone probably knows the stereotype of the preteen kid forced to wear braces by their parents; the metal wires are placed over their teeth and worn for a year or more for maximum effectiveness. However, contrary to popular belief, braces may be needed at any age, for a variety of different reasons. Before you start considering braces, it is important to talk to your dentist or orthodontist to determine whether or not you need them, and when is the ideal time to get them.

When to consider braces?

There are several reasons why someone should consider getting braces. For example, children may need them in order to correct early dental issues, such as a cleft palate, while younger and older people alike may use braces to help straighten teeth that have begun to grow crookedly or to correct an overbite or underbite.

For children who could benefit from wearing braces, 9 to 11 years old is the recommended age to begin. This is the time at which the adult teeth have mainly set in, but before any serious problems can develop that may hinder the straightening of teeth in the future. However, exceptions may occur in cases where children need braces for their primary teeth or before any teeth set in at all (such as the case of a cleft palate).

Adults who consider getting braces later in life may need them in order to preserve teeth that have begun to get worn down. Preserving teeth is essential for overall health, as healthy teeth are tied to infection prevention and healthy eating. Furthermore, adults may want to get braces for the same reason as kids; to correct crooked teeth or improve the quality of their smile.

Some alternative teeth-straightening methods, such as Invisalign, are highly effective. However, dentists often recommend and sometimes even require braces over these other methods. Invisalign, for example, is not able to accurately correct vertical problems where teeth are at different heights, and also is not very effective with teeth that are severely rotated or overcrowded. Bite issues are also an aspect of oral health that Invisalign cannot address.

At Esthetix Dental Spa, qualifying patients for braces can now obtain that ideal smile at a fraction of the cost with our Holiday Special! Throughout December 2015, receive $500 OFF on any braces treatment. Call our office in New York, NY at (212) 795-9675 to take advantage of this limited time offer!