It Is Never Too Late To Wear Braces

BATON ROUGE, LA, September 16, 2011

There is a common misconception that braces are only for teenagers. As a result, many adults who did not have corrective orthodontic treatment as teens have resigned themselves to living with malocclusions, unsightly gaps, and a less-than-attractive smile. The fact of the matter is that it is never too late for a patient to seek orthodontic treatment, and braces are no longer just for kids.

A surprising 25% of orthodontic patients are adults. According to Baton Rouge and Denham Springs LA orthodontist Dr. Joseph Porter of Porter Orthodontics, many adults patients assume that they will be unable to wear braces because they have crowns, fillings, or missing teeth. The good news for these individuals is that crowns and fillings move with the natural teeth during orthodontic treatment, so previous dental work is not an impediment to wearing braces. Adult patients with missing teeth are often excellent candidates for braces, because the orthodontic treatment will help to realign the remaining teeth to close the gaps, resulting in a more balanced and beautiful smile.

Baton Rouge orthodontist Dr. Porter explains that the benefits of wearing braces later in life go beyond improving appearance and increasing self-esteem. When an adult has crooked teeth and a bad bite, it can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, excessive wear of tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches, and joint pain in the jaw. Correcting these problems with a customized plan of adult orthodontic treatment can result in improved dental function and preservation of the patient's natural teeth over the long term. A straight smile is not only more appealing, it is healthier and more youthful.

Modern orthodontic techniques have made it possible for adults to discreetly improve their smile while going about their daily activities. The new generation of techniques and appliances have shortened treatment time, require fewer visits, and create minimal discomfort. Adult patients can be fitted with metal braces, translucent braces, or clear Invisalign aligners, depending on their individual needs. Baton Rouge Invisalign orthodontist Dr. Porter reports that Invisalign clear aligners are particularly popular among his adult patients, because they can be worn without anyone even noticing. It allows adults to maintain a professional appearance while straightening their teeth.

Dr. Joseph Porter is a Baton Rouge Invisalign orthodontist with a second office in Denham Springs, LA. He is board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Patients of any age seeking consultations for Invisalign or other types of braces are invited to contact Porter Orthodontics by telephone at (225) 291-9900 or by email at info@porterbraces.com. For additional information on the long term aesthetic and health benefits of orthodontic treatment for adults and teens, visit http://www.porterbraces.com/ or http://www.porterbracesblog.com.

Signature:

Dr. Joseph R. Porter
Porter Orthodontics
4451 Bluebonnet Blvd., Suite B
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Telephone: (520) 290-8787
Email: info@porterbraces.com
Website: http://www.porterbraces.com/