It’s easy to think of braces as things that kids wear. After all, most of us first became exposed to them when peers at school started showing up after dentist appointments with shiny metal brackets and wires affixed to their teeth. Not to mention that braces are a staple visual character builder in teen movies.

But just because we’re used to braces on kids doesn’t mean that adults can’t get them, too. While dentists encourage parents to get braces for their kids while they are young and their teeth are more easily shifted, braces can still be an effective and long-lasting treatment for crooked teeth in an adult mouth.

Man's smile with dental braces on teeth

Why Straighten Your Teeth?

Of course, the obvious reason to get braces is cosmetic. Straight teeth signify health and beauty to others, and many people are ashamed of crooked teeth and feel uncomfortable smiling in person and in photos due to misaligned teeth.

But crooked teeth aren’t just unattractive — they can also be unhealthy. Straight teeth are easy to clean, while crooked teeth have more small, awkward places that may be difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss, and are likely to harbor bits of food. In turn, these troubles make people with crooked teeth more likely to experience tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, if your bite doesn’t come down evenly on all of your teeth, you’re more likely to damage your teeth or jaw due to uneven application of pressure.

And of course, now that orthodontics have progressed and improved, braces no longer have to be an embarrassment or an eyesore.

Adults Can Straighten Teeth Subtly

Dental technology has advanced in many ways since you were a kid! Those metal braces are no longer a requirement to straighten out teeth effectively and quickly. Now, you can look good even while your teeth are in the process of being straightened thanks to clear aligners like Invisalign.

Whether you’re concerned about how the appearance of your teeth will affect your work, your relationships, your romantic prospects, of simply your self esteem, Invisalign is — as its name suggests — practically invisible, making it a subtle choice for self improvement.

Just like traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners work by applying constant force to slowly move teeth into the desired position. But unlike traditional metal braces, you don’t need to change your eating habits or oral hygiene processes. The clear aligners can be easily removed during meals and don’t require any special care or cleaning.

Best of all, Invisalign is just as affordable as traditional braces. In fact, it’s often less expensive!

It’s never too late to get the smile you want! If your crooked teeth are bothering you, Invisalign is a discreet, effective solution that works quickly and will barely be noticeable to those around you. Make sure that if you get Invisalign, you go to an experienced cosmetic dentist right here in Rockland County. Call (845) 627-7645 or contact us online to make an appointment.