Orthodontist's campaign increases awareness of numerous health benefits of braces

Melbourne, FL -- (SBWire) -- 03/13/2014 --Statistics from the American Association of Orthodontics reveal an estimated 5 million people in the United States currently wear braces with these numbers continuing to increase. Despite this high count, numerous others have yet to receive the orthodontic care they need. The majority of these are typically hesitant to make a sizable investment in what they believe to be a purely cosmetic procedure. In an effort reverse such misconceptions, Dr. Teresa Brigance of Braces By Brigance has launched her "Benefits of Getting Braces" campaign.

Dr. Brigance explained, "Orthodontic treatments run much deeper than simply improving patients' smiles. Though different age groups receive varying benefits from preventative and corrective care, advantages are available to everyone. The key is determining existing issues and taking the appropriate actions to correct them."

The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontics alike recommend a child's first visit to the dentist occur by the age of 1 year. Experts from across these fields also suggest early orthodontic assessments. Parents are advised to have their children's first orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7.

Many of the typical problems such as protruding front teeth, incorrect bites, improper jaw alignment and speech or chewing difficulties resulting from these issues are apparent at this early age. Braces may not be practical at this time, but early detection will pave the way for prompt treatments during the teenage years. Potential overcrowding of teeth can also be corrected, which may prevent the need for future alignment corrections.

Once the permanent teeth have grown in, usually between the ages of 9 and 14, accurate alignment of the teeth and jaws becomes increasingly important. Crooked and crowded teeth prevent proper brushing and flossing, increasing the risk of plaque and tartar buildup. This leads to tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and erosion of bone tissue. Misaligned jaws also escalate the likelihood of developing TMD during adulthood. Braces and corrective jaw placement procedures are most beneficial during these teenage years.

As long as advanced tooth decay and periodontal issues have not set in, adults can benefit from braces as well; however, if such issues are present, they must be dealt with before teeth can be straightened. Varying stages of gum disease must be treated in order to halt bone loss and eliminate infections. Less advanced levels of tooth decay must be corrected through fillings and crowns. Alignment using braces may still be possible after these treatments.

Concluded Dr. Brigance, "We offer traditional metal braces and the Invisalign system, both of which provide benefits for teens and adults. While patients reap the numerous health benefits of having straighter teeth, they gain the aesthetic advantages as well. Children, teens and adults have nothing to lose by visiting us for a free consultation, and we also offer various monthly specials. We encourage those of any age to visit us at http://bracesbybrigance.com to request an appointment."

About Braces By Brigance
Braces by Brigance (bracesbybrigance.com) offers professional application of teeth straightening appliances such as traditional metal braces and the very discreet Invisalign system. As Dr. Brigance continues to further her dental expertise by continually learning about the latest practices and procedures in the dental field, she also makes it a point to offer the newest orthodontic applications as they become available.