How do I know if I need braces?

The best way to determine if braces are right for you is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. During your appointment, we will assess your dental needs and recommend the best course of action.

Can adults get braces?

Yes! Braces are suitable for patients of all ages. Adults can choose from a variety of options, including clear aligners or ceramic braces, to meet their needs and lifestyle.

How long will I need to wear braces?

The length of your treatment depends on your specific needs, with most patients wearing braces for 12 to 24 months. An orthodontist will provide a detailed timeline during your consultation.

While braces can cause some discomfort, especially after adjustments, the pain is typically mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help alleviate discomfort.

Braces Candidacy | Foster City & Belmont, CA, Orthodontist

Learn More About Braces Candidacy With Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics

At Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves a smile they can be proud of. Whether you’re looking to straighten your teeth, improve your bite, or address an orthodontic concern, braces can provide the solution you need. But how do you know if getting braces is the right choice for you?

Braces are an effective treatment for patients of all ages, from teenagers to adults, and they can help correct a wide range of dental issues. If you’re wondering whether you’re a good candidate for braces, Dr. Jacklyn Kurth and our experienced team are here to guide you every step of the way. We understand that each patient is unique, and we’re committed to providing personalized care to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that determine candidacy for braces and what conditions they can treat. Call (650) 525-9440 for our Foster City office or (650) 592-4850 for our Belmont office Foster City and Belmont to begin your journey toward a healthier, straighter smile.

What Makes a Good Candidate for Braces?

Misaligned Teeth

Crooked or crowded teeth can not only impact your smile but also your ability to brush and floss properly. Braces are an excellent way to align teeth that are misaligned or have irregular spacing, giving you both cosmetic and health benefits.

Bite Issues (Malocclusions)

Braces can help correct bite problems such as:

Overbite: When your upper teeth overlap significantly with your lower teeth.
Underbite: When your lower teeth protrude beyond your upper teeth.
Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, causing wear, gum issues, or bone loss.
Open Bite: When there is a gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.

Each of these issues can lead to discomfort, difficulty eating, and long-term dental problems if left untreated. Braces are an effective way to restore proper bite function and alignment.

Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth can be caused by genetics, missing teeth, or an underdeveloped jaw. Braces can gradually move teeth together, closing the gaps and creating a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing smile.

Speech Difficulties

A misaligned jaw or crooked teeth can sometimes lead to speech difficulties. If you find it difficult to pronounce certain sounds, especially if this is due to a bite or teeth alignment issue, braces can help reposition your teeth and improve your speech clarity.

Concern About Future Dental Problems

Even if your smile looks fine now, orthodontic issues like bite misalignment can lead to future dental problems. Braces can prevent issues such as uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, and even tooth decay by improving how your teeth fit together.

Ready for a Long-Term Commitment

Braces require a commitment of time and care, including regular orthodontic visits and daily oral hygiene routines. If you’re ready to take this important step to improve your smile and oral health, you may be an excellent candidate for braces.

Age Doesn’t Matter: Braces Are for Teens and Adults

It’s a common misconception that braces are only for teenagers. In reality, adults are more than welcome to undergo orthodontic treatment as well. At Jacklyn Kurth Orthodontics, we offer a variety of options that suit the needs of adult patients, including clear aligners and ceramic braces. Whether you’re a teen looking to perfect your smile or an adult wanting to address your bite, braces can work for anyone, regardless of age.

Braces can even be effective for patients who have previously had orthodontic treatment but need a second round of adjustments due to changes in their teeth or bite over the years.

How We Determine Your Candidacy for Braces

The process of determining whether you are a good candidate for braces begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Jacklyn Kurth. During this appointment, we will:

Examine Your Teeth and Bite: Dr. Kurth will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and bite to identify any misalignment or bite issues.
Take X-rays and Impressions: To get a full understanding of your jaw and teeth alignment, we may take X-rays and digital impressions. These allow us to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Discuss Your Treatment Options: After evaluating your orthodontic needs, we will present the best treatment options available, which may include traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, or clear aligners.
Answer Your Questions: We want to ensure you feel comfortable and informed about your treatment. We’ll address any concerns you may have, including the duration of braces treatment, cost, and aftercare.

Conditions Braces Can Correct

Traditional braces are highly effective for a range of conditions, including:

Crowded Teeth: Teeth that are too close together can be realigned to create more space and improve both aesthetics and function.
Crooked Teeth: Teeth that are misaligned, rotated, or tilted can be moved into proper alignment with the help of dental braces.
Gaps Between Teeth: Braces can gradually move teeth together, closing unsightly gaps and improving your smile’s appearance.
Overbites and Underbites: Both overbites and underbites can be corrected with braces, allowing for improved bite function and comfort.
Crossbites and Open Bites: Braces help to correct these bite issues, which can affect the way you chew, speak, and smile.
Jaw Alignment Issues: Braces can help reposition the teeth and jaw, improving overall dental health and preventing future complications.

The Benefits of Choosing Braces

Choosing braces as part of your orthodontic treatment offers a range of benefits, including:

A Healthier Smile: By aligning your teeth and correcting your bite, braces improve your oral health, making it easier to maintain clean teeth and gums.
Enhanced Confidence: A straight smile not only improves your appearance but also boosts your confidence, helping you feel more comfortable in social and professional situations.
Long-Term Dental Health: Correcting misalignment helps prevent future dental issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw pain.

Find Out if You’re a Candidate for Braces in Foster City and Belmont, CA