People have their teeth straightened for a variety of reasons. These include:

• Improving facial appearance
• Improving speech and/or chewing function
• For dental health

Dental health is the most important reason to have braces made as poorly aligned or crooked teeth are difficult to keep clean. They often give rise to decay and gum problems. For most people, orthodontic treatment with braces is an elective procedure. It is rare that teeth will be lost if treatment has not started.

There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment – adults can benefit from it too. There are alternative solutions to orthodontic problems. These are prosthodontic treatments using tooth veneers, crowns, bridges or dentures or no treatment at all. The orthodontist will discuss the risks and benefits of each alternative with you.