Amidst their busy lives and priorities, many adults wonder if getting braces is worth their time and money. A smile is such a simple thing; is it worth the investment? An overwhelming amount of research suggests that it is, says Dr. Jeannie Moody, a leading orthodontist in Austin. Braces in adulthood are about much more than straight teeth. They are most likely the right thing at the right time, as it can improve self-confidence and motivation, serving as a springboard for personal and professional growth.
Most people know that braces help straighten teeth and produce beautiful smiles. Fewer people know that having straight teeth can greatly impact health, quality of life, self-image, and confidence and can even positively impact one’s professional life.
Braces Improve Dental Health and Physical Health
When teeth are misaligned, crooked, or crowded, it’s nearly impossible to keep them clean. Even with proper brushing and flossing, food particles, bacteria, and plaque build up quickly, causing stains, tooth decay, and gum disease. Poor oral health is associated with many chronic conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. Orthodontic braces straighten the teeth, leading to better oral health.
Braces Lead to Better Nutrition, More Energy, and More Focus
A strong, healthy body relies on gaining nutrients from our diet. If the food is not chewed properly, it is not broken down, and the body cannot extract the nutrients effectively. Eventually, the body experiences vitamin deficiencies that lead to poor health.
Having a corrected bite means being able to chew foods properly, making those nutrients more easily absorbed. With better nutrition, the body has more energy, and the mind is more focused.
Increased Confidence
Crooked teeth can severely impact one’s self-image and self-esteem. Self-image is related to what we see in the mirror but goes much deeper. It refers to how one sees oneself on a global level, internally and externally. Self-image has a lot to do with self-esteem, which involves how favorably or unfavorably a person views themself and their capabilities. The more negative a person’s self-image is, the lower their self-esteem.
When it comes to increasing confidence, nothing is more transformative than a new beautiful smile. Investing in improving oneself is empowering, and a beautiful smile allows patients to navigate social situations without hindrance.
Improved Professional Life
Since braces lead to better nutrition and overall health, people enjoy more energy, focus, and motivation which benefits them professionally. Having improved self-esteem increases confidence which encourages individuals to utilize and embrace the full scope of their abilities.
A Great Smile Has a Huge Impact
Individuals with straight teeth are more likely to smile more often. Studies have shown that smiling releases endorphins that trigger positive feelings such as happiness. Smiling is also contagious. In the professional world, smiling can help others embrace an idea, soften difficult attitudes, and help individuals gain the trust of others. People who smile are more likely to be approached, trusted with projects, and promoted.
A Game-Changing Smile
Anyone wondering if getting braces in adulthood is worth the time should consider these compelling facts. According to a Cigna study, 93% of adults are highly satisfied with their smile and rate their self-confidence as excellent or very good. Additionally, an American Academy of Orthodontics study of adults recently completing orthodontic treatment reported that 75% attributed improvements in their careers and personal relationships to their new smiles.
For more information about Dr. Jeannie Moody or her practice, Moody Orthodontics, she can be reached at (512) 447-6453
Dr. Jeannie Moody
2500 W William Cannon Dr
Ste 102
Austin, Tx 78745
(512) 447-6453
