The teenage years can be some of the best years of your life. They are a time when young people are encouraged to discover their own identities and prepare for their futures. Although braces can seem like a daunting prospect, they can help to give young adults the best possible start in life. Straightening teeth and correcting jaw problems before adulthood can help children and teenagers stay healthy and improve their self-esteem.

Why is it important for young people to wear braces?

Children and teenagers are still growing. This provides Droylsden dentists with far more scope when it comes to correcting teeth and jaw problems. Problems that braces can correct include:

  • Crowding.
  • Gaps.
  • Irregular bite, such as an overbite (where the upper jaw is bigger than the bottom jaw) or an underbite (when the bottom jaw is bigger than the upper jaw).

Correcting irregular bites can help young people to chew properly and may also assist in the treatment of speech defects.

We know that most young people like to look good – and braces can ensure that the jaw grows properly, helping to create a balanced facial structure.  Properly aligned teeth have more of a chance of staying strong and healthy, they are less likely to wear down and it is easier to maintain good oral hygiene, as straight teeth prevent problems such as tooth decay and gum disease developing in later life.

Do all young people have to wear the traditional metal braces?

No – many new orthodontic technologies have been developed especially for young adults. The state-of-the-art invisible braces Invisalign have been adapted to cater specifically for the needs of young people. Unlike fixed braces, Invisalign Teen can be taken out when eating and to be cleaned. If your teenager plays sport, likes to sing, perform or perhaps even has their very first school prom coming up, then Invisalign Teen gives them the freedom to remove their brace when needed. Unlike the adult Invisalign, the teen aligner has a sensor that will help the dentist, parents and the patient tell if the aligner has not been worn long enough, and if an aligner is lost then each patient can receive up to six free replacement aligners.

Give your child something to smile about. Visit Mossley Dental care to find out more about braces for young adults.