Braces used to be predominantly seen on teenagers, with orthodontists hoping to straighten crooked teeth so children could have perfect smiles in their adult lives.
However, trends have changed in recent years, as more grown-ups are asking for braces from their Ashton-under-Lyne dentist, unhappy with previous orthodontics treatment or wanting to feel more confident with their smile.
Thanks to clear braces, many people are less embarrassed about wearing braces as an adult than they would have been when their choices were more limited.
They can also see the long-term benefits of wearing the apparatus for a few months.
As well as aesthetic improvements, having a more symmetrical smile and reducing gaps between teeth, there are other advantages of adult braces.
These include being easier to chew or swallow by correcting bite issues, reducing pain they might experience in their jaw, and improving their dental health.
It is considerably easier to clean straight teeth thoroughly, cutting the risk of tooth decay, staining and even gum disease.
They could also find their speech improves if their teeth have been getting in the way of their communication, which could have a knock-on effect with their social confidence, and maybe even their professional achievements.
Simply being able to smile more makes someone seem more approachable, and boosts their confidence. This can improve their success in networking, job interviews, and even dating.
As more people sign up to cosmetic treatments to make their skin look younger, their eyelashes longer, or their lips fuller, it seems natural that they would also want to improve their appearance by making their teeth straighter at the same time.