I wanted braces when I was a kid. All of the cool kids had braces. But, because I am affected by AEC Syndrome, I got dentures instead. I was about 8 years old when I got my first dental appliance. I remember begging my Mom to make the doctor put braces on my dentures… LOL. Mom was like, “I am not paying to have braces put on already straight teeth, Virginia.” Ah, well.
Of course, I think a LOT more teens would have had braces when I was younger if they’d had clear aligners back then. Those are pretty nifty. The old fashioned way of straightening teeth, with braces, is history. With clear aligners, you can even straighten your teeth at home in a hygienic way. And it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg!
There’s more benefits to a straight smile than just the confidence it brings. Straight teeth are important for good oral health, are less likely to suffer damage – like breaking or chipping – from wear and tear, and misaligned teeth can be painful.
As my kids get older, I know my son will need dentures at some point and will eventually need dental implants. My oldest daughter may need her teeth straightened. I’m grateful there are affordable options available that will enable us to get them both what they need.
