If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider whether or not you should get braces. A beautiful, confident smile is more than just an aesthetic choice it’s a gateway to improved self-esteem, better oral health, and potentially even enhanced overall well-being. Crooked teeth aren’t just a cosmetic concern; they can lead to multiple dental problems and health complications if left untreated.
There are several key indicators that suggest you might be an excellent candidate for getting braces:
- Crowded teeth or widely spaced teeth
- Overbite or underbite
- Crossbite or open bite
- Difficulty in cleaning teeth due to misalignment
- Frequent jaw pain or discomfort
- Speech impediments related to dental structure
- Self-consciousness about your smile
Preparing for orthodontic treatment is an important part of getting the smile you want. It’s not just about the end result, but also about understanding the journey and committing to the process of transformation.
At What Age Can You Get Braces?
The ideal age for getting braces typically ranges between 10 and 14 years old when children are experiencing a growth spurt, have lost all their baby teeth, and their permanent teeth have fully emerged. However, orthodontic treatment is not limited to this age group.
Early Orthodontic Evaluations
Early orthodontic treatment can begin as young as 7 years old to identify potential alignment issues. At this age, orthodontists can:
- Detect potential crowded teeth
- Identify jaw alignment problems
- Predict future dental development
- Recommend preventative treatments
- Create a strategic plan for future orthodontic intervention
Adult Orthodontics
Adults can also successfully get braces at any age, with many people choosing orthodontic treatment in their 20s, 30s, and beyond. The key factors are not just age, but the overall health of your adult teeth, jaw alignment, and specific dental concerns. Modern orthodontic treatments like clear aligners have made treatment more accessible and less noticeable for patients of all ages.
Benefits of adult braces include:
- Improved oral hygiene
- Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Alleviation of jaw pain
- Enhanced smile aesthetics
- Increased self-confidence
Preparation for Orthodontic Treatment
Basic Exams
The first step of preparation is a comprehensive examination. An oral exam and X-rays taken at Bean & Geller Orthodontics are necessary to identify potential orthodontic problems and ensure the right steps are taken to prepare for orthodontic care.
Your orthodontist will:
- Thoroughly examine your teeth and jaw alignment
- Take detailed X-rays
- Determine if tooth extraction is necessary
- Identify any additional preparatory work required
- Create a personalized treatment plan
You will be prepared for the next step of orthodontic treatment after your exam is complete and potential dental problems are identified.
Model for Bite
The next step in preparing for orthodontic treatment is taking a precise plaster model of the mouth. This model serves multiple crucial purposes:
- Determine uneven jaw alignment
- Plan appropriate adjustments
- Create a blueprint for dental braces placement
- Predict treatment outcomes
- Customize treatment approach
Dr. Bean will use this model to make informed decisions about your specific orthodontic care, ensuring a tailored approach to your dental health.
Potential Tooth Extraction
In some cases, tooth extraction might be necessary before proceeding with braces. Only Dr. Bean can determine if removing a permanent tooth is essential to:
- Create space for proper alignment
- Correct severe crowded teeth
- Improve overall dental structure
Treatment Options
When your teeth are crooked, you have misaligned lower front teeth and upper front teeth, or are otherwise unhappy with your teeth, treatment may be the best solution. Modern orthodontic treatments offer multiple braces options:
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces
- Invisalign aligners
- Clear braces
Getting Started with Braces: Your Smile Transformation Journey
At Bean & Geller Orthodontics, we guide you through every step of your smile journey. From determining the right time to start to choosing the best treatment, we’re with you all the way. You’ll meet regularly with Dr. Bean for truly personalized care.
Whether you’re dealing with complex dental issues, need early orthodontic treatment for your child, or want to boost your confidence with adult braces, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
Take the first step towards a confident, healthy smile. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bean to explore your orthodontic options and discover how we can help you achieve newly straightened teeth with modern orthodontic treatments.
For more information about orthodontics and its benefits, or to schedule a consultation, please give us a call at our convenient Plano, TX office!
