For those of us that were not born with a smile that we love, we know how photos and new meetings can make us feel shy, anxious and timid.

Some spend a lifetime hiding their smiles behind a hand or speaking without ever showing their teeth. Some wish that they could magically change their smiles.

After working many years in the profession of making beautiful smiles, orthodontists know first-hand that a course of treatment can be life-changing. A beautiful smile is what people will first see and can be a lasting reminder of you, thereon after.

So what if you are one of those people and you are an adult? I bet you probably think that you’ve missed the boat and that you are too old for orthodontics. Well, if you haven’t noticed, many adults proudly sport braces now.

Social stigma surrounding braces is disappearing. The modern ceramic braces are subtle and barely visible – perfect for the self-conscious adult. And if you are sure that braces are just not for you, then see the most skilled practitioners to see if clear aligners, like Invisalign® can achieve a result.

Orthodontists treat people of all ages, even those in their 80’s!

Adult treatment can be more complex

Adult treatment can be more complex if your teeth are heavily broken down, missing teeth or if your gums have suffered from gum disease.

Managing the whole mouth can be tricky and while the orthodontist only does the tooth movement, they will work with your general dentist and other specialists when required, to ensure you get the most out of your time in treatment.

Adult treatment is simpler because

Adult treatment is simpler because the patient is in the driver seat. They are excellent compliers, making progress more predictable. Adults can make the call on what their treatment is, how long it takes and within what budget. Seeing a registered specialist orthodontist will reassure you that you are making the right decisions regarding your health and budget.

What do adult patients think?

What do adult patients think? During treatment, orthodontists are often met with exclamations of surprise and satisfaction with the effect and rate of tooth movement. We are often told that after the first adjustment period, the appliances are not obtrusive to daily life. Patients are excited to see their teeth moving in front of their own eyes and the experience is overall very rewarding and positive.

After treatment, what do orthodontists love to frequently hear?

• I wish I did it years ago
• It was easier than I thought and everyone compliments me on my smile.
• I  was always so afraid… I’m so glad I did it
• My teeth are now easier to clean
• My kids will need braces and they have confidence that I coped and love the results.

It is undeniable that orthodontics can change how people carry themselves. We live in a world where pictures, whether candid or posed, are taken every single day. It’s hard to avoid. You need not be one of those that shies away.

Until you begin the journey to attain that smile, you will not appreciate the significance that confidence while speaking and smiling, can give you. Push past your fear and achieve that smile that reflects your spirit. You deserve to be proud of your smile. Call your local registered specialist orthodontist for a comprehensive assessment and let them co-ordinate and guide you through a treatment that keeps your mouth healthy and gives you a stunning smile.

Dr Linda Ton, Orthodontist
Townsville Orthodontic Specialists