Sponsored Post
Dental care is something drummed into all of us from a young age and a topic that often crops up is the subject of orthodontic work and getting it done at a fairly young age. Having seen two sides of the spectrum, I wanted to talk about my reasons for why I would recommend orthodontics and why I would be happy for Jack to have them in the future if required.
Back in 2000/2001, I had braces put on. I was 10, almost 11. I hated them at first as I already had big thick glasses and I thought I looked weird but my dentist assured me they were a necessity as did my Mum. My Mum had the opportunity to have orthodontic work done when she was younger and refused as did her parents – and now she regrets it completely – so she didn’t want to make the same mistake with me. I can’t remember what the exact problem was and why I needed them (it was a long time ago now, I got them off when I was in Year 9 so 2003/2004) but I do remember the day I got them off and how I felt. My teeth felt different, better, straighter, healthier – I felt more confident too which as a teen is great as self confidence can be a big issue among teenage girls.
Keeping your check ups consistent whilst having orthodontics is also key. Just like you would see a dentist every 6 months or so when you don’t have braces, its important to still visit your dentist for regular checkups around your orthodontic appointments. Look at it as an extra reassurance that you’re doing it right. Oral hygiene is very important but it is definitely even more so when you have orthodontic treatments done due to the possibility of food and stuff getting caught – this happens more easily than you think which is why you find a variety of implements and stuff at your local orthodontic practice to help you get it out.
Although it is possible to have orthodontic work as an adult, early treatment is recommended as the best time to receive it. Potential problems can be easily corrected as a child that are harder to correct as an adult. Hampstead Orthodontics talk about the benefits of early treatment here but they also offer adult braces as well as Invisalign and other non visible braces for adults. I know that if I was to have work done now, I would certainly opt for the more incognito version of adult braces – if you can get your teeth looking better without anyone knowing, why not?
Since I became an adult, I am aware that my teeth have slightly shifted back – mostly since having wisdom teeth come through which completely overcrowded my mouth – and I am considering getting more orthodontic work done in the future. Its important to be confident in yourself and your body and I would recommend orthodontics to anyone who feels self conscious about their teeth – its never too late.
If Jack’s dentist said to me in a couple of years time that he needed to have braces, I wouldn’t hesitate. Yes he might moan and groan to start with but he’ll certainly see the benefits like I did and he won’t end up regretting it like my poor Mum.
Teeth I believe are an important aspect, as part of our digestion. As well as used so much in communication :- A smile says so much, also laughter.
As a youngster I never came across the term orthodontist. During employment colleagues often talking about their children having been referred to an orthodontist, frequently given braces. This seemed to become the “norm”. So much so that some youngsters became keen to have braces, just like particular classmates.
I have some teeth which are so close together that I cannot get floss between them. So believe that I could have benefited from an orthodontist. Wish that the NHS ( National Health Service) appreciated how important teeth are to individuals and their health. I believe that it is important to maintain a healthy mouth with a mouthful of healthy teeth. For those who have lost teeth, have poor oral hygiene etc :- I believe that it is likely that that impacts on other aspects of their health. Whilst also likely to be costly in the long term for the NHS.
I can recall in school how we were encouraged to regularly brush our teeth, Health Improvement programmes etc. Maybe more needs to be done. As surely those who have dentures are likely to be at higher risk of infection :- due to food getting trapped under denture plate. That may also impact on digestion etc.
Teeth and Good General Health I believe should be Valued and Celebrated. Orthodontists may well have a role within that philosophy.