Meet Lisa R. (27), an individual who finds joy in smiling but tends to keep her mouth closed due to dissatisfaction with her teeth. Standing at 1.56 meters, Lisa, a resident of Hamburg, is contemplating the possibility of straightening her teeth using Invisalign braces. "Not only am I petite, but my jaw is as well. Consequently, my teeth slightly overlap, especially the incisors," explains the 27-year-old.
A petite jaw can lead to significant issues, not just visually, but also medically. "The further the teeth grow on top of each other, the more challenging it becomes to brush the spaces between them. In the long term, this could increase the risk of root problems or brittle teeth," advises Lisa's dentist, emphasizing the potential benefits of braces.
But what exactly are the medical advantages of braces? In 2018, the Federal Ministry of Health attempted to answer this question by commissioning a study. The authors concluded that a final assessment is currently not possible, as highlighted in a report: "Although a considerable number of studies and documents were found in the research, the material is only partially suitable for a comprehensive answer."
The increasing quality of life could be a driving force behind the growing trend of adults opting for teeth correction. Approximately 40 percent of patients seeking orthodontic treatment are adults with misaligned teeth. Treatment in adults is a lifelong commitment, with no age restrictions. Adequate bone density and the absence of gingivitis are crucial factors for a successful orthodontic journey.
Tooth misalignments are not confined to childhood; they can develop later in life due to various reasons, such as erupting wisdom teeth, teeth "tipping" into gaps, tooth migration from factors like teeth grinding or inflammation of the tooth bed. Nested teeth pose challenges in cleaning, increasing the likelihood of periodontal diseases, tooth decay, or inflammation of the mouth lining.
Lisa's contemplation of braces dates back to her childhood, where the overgrowth of her teeth was deemed purely aesthetic. "Today, I believe the dental perspective back then could have recognized that the small jaw might also pose health problems in adulthood," reflects the Hamburg native.
While Lisa already knows that transparent braces, like Invisalign, would be suitable for her due to soft enamel, the high costs associated with adult braces have been a deterrent. Adults typically bear the expense of their braces unless a severe jaw anomaly is present.
As Lisa envisions a future with corrected teeth, she emphasizes a vital realization – the possibility of achieving a confident smile through teeth straightening is not bound by age. "Straight and beautiful teeth contribute to self-confidence, proving that it's never too late to embark on a journey towards a radiant smile. Regardless of age, the prospect of smiling more in pictures is a compelling incentive, making the investment in a straighter, healthier smile truly timeless."
