A smile is one of the first things people notice in any social situation, and crooked or misaligned teeth can generate self-consciousness, especially in older kids and young adults. However, new technology has brought us a new alignment method that offers a discreet way to transform smiles without interfering with a patient’s self-esteem. As you explore potential treatments for straightening teeth, here are the ways that Invisalign can boost confidence in every situation.
UPDATED 15-12-17
Improved Oral Health
When teeth are misaligned or placed too closely together, it can be hard to brush and floss properly. This can lead to food and plaque being stuck between the teeth that are noticeable to others. Over time, this problem can lead to decay, chipped teeth and gum disease, which severely compromise a person’s smile. Sadly, a person’s smile is so interlinked with how they are viewed by others that deteriorating teeth can also cause self-confidence to plummet.
For this reason, it is important to understand that orthodontic appliances do not only correct the appearance of a smile. By making sure that teeth are properly aligned. A person’s oral hygiene routine will be more effective so that they can flash their best smile for a lifetime.
Enhanced Aesthetics and Comfort
In the past, taunts of “metal mouth” were common on playgrounds and in high school cafeterias due to the obvious wires and brackets used for traditional braces. This often led to children dreading the prospect of having orthodontic treatment, and those who did get treatment would hide their smiles behind their hands. With metal appliances, children are also required to follow a restricted diet that makes them stand out in social situations.
While these types of things might not bother you as an adult, it is important to understand the sensitivity of children who are still developing their self-esteem. Fortunately, children no longer have to endure playground taunts and people of all ages can take part in social celebrations without worrying about breaking their wires because plastic aligners allow for nearly undetectable treatment that does not hinder a patient’s comfort.
For example, Invisalign trays can easily be removed for eating and cleaning purposes so that your lifestyle is never disrupted. While they are typically not visible in photos, they can also be removed briefly for snapshots so that a person can smile with confidence.
Better Educational and Professional Performance
Public speaking is one social situation with which even adults tend to struggle. Everyone can remember being in high school where standing in front of the class was excruciatingly awkward. A misaligned smile can add to the discomfort of children and adults alike that can influence both educational and professional performance. For example, a teenager who is uncomfortable with their smile may be afraid to join the debate team or the cheerleading squad.
They may “forget” to bring their report so that they can skip an oral presentation. Teens flash their smile once corrected. Parents frequently notice an increase in their kid’s academic achievements and willingness to take part in important social activities at school. It is important to note that invisible braces can also bolster an adult’s professional performance.
This is because the traditional metal models tend to be more noticeable. Adults who need orthodontic treatment may also experience a temporary drop in their self-esteem. Those who have completed their orthodontic treatment also benefit from an improved confidence that will provide an edge in the competitive corporate arena. Company meetings, cooperative work, and public speaking events all draw attention to a person’s appearance. Projecting an air of confidence with a strong smile can bolster professional success throughout one’s life.
Increased Compliance
Orthodontic treatment requires cooperation between a child, their parents and their orthodontist for it to be successful. Metal appliances often required a child to maneuver around wires and braces to complete their nightly oral hygiene routine. Many children would balk at the extra effort required. In many instances, this led to discord within the family that created negative emotions and arguments that did not foster an environment conducive to building self-esteem.
Invisible aligners, however, make it easier for teens to keep their teeth and gums healthy, and families have discovered that visiting the orthodontist is no longer a dreaded chore. Instead, these visits are a great opportunity for increasing a child’s confidence. As they see the progress that everyone is making together to increase the aesthetics and function of their smile.
Your Personalized Orthodontic Treatment Plan
Improving a person’s smile is an intricate process that requires the selection of the right type of treatment for correcting crooked and misaligned teeth. While it is common to focus merely on the outward appearance of a person’s smile. It is important to remember that this is one feature that greatly affects how a person feels about their self.
From the moment that treatment begins to years later when a person’s smile is still shining bright, correctly aligned teeth will allow them to interact with others while enjoying a greater sense of self-confidence. If you are ready to explore the benefits that Invisalign can have to you or your child’s self-confidence, then Dr. Nease is ready.
Contact Nease and Higginbotham Orthodontics today and walk away with a smile!
Nease and Higginbotham Orthodontics
2455 E. Main Street
Spartanburg, SC 29307
Tel: (864)579-7700
