Dr. Erin Gustafson
Dr. Erin Gustafson was born and raised in northeast Texas, relocating to Lubbock to complete her undergraduate degree in Zoology at Texas Tech University.
Read more about Dr. Erin Gustafson
Find Us:
Dentist - Humble
9630 North Sam Houston Pkwy E. Bldg B
Humble, TX 77396
Find us
Patient Library
Find helpful information in our digital library.
Archive:
- 2021
- 2020
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015
- 2014
- 2013
Tags
- Welcome (1)
- celebrity smiles (91)
- oral hygiene (29)
- orthodontics (13)
- braces (17)
- gum disease (15)
- clear aligners (3)
- snoring (4)
- sleep apnea (4)
- aging (1)
- orthodontic treatment (20)
- periodontal disease (5)
- cosmetic dentistry (16)
- oral surgery (2)
- oral health (27)
- gum recession (6)
- dental injury (7)
- mouthguard (1)
- dental emergency (2)
- nutrition (8)
- teeth whitening (6)
- pediatric dentistry (15)
- dental exam (1)
- toothache (4)
- tooth pain (4)
- root canal (7)
- bad breath (3)
- osteoporosis (2)
- dental care (2)
- dental implants (13)
- tooth grinding (1)
- baby teeth (1)
- tooth wear (1)
- endodontics (1)
- crowns (5)
- chipped teeth (1)
- topical fluoride (1)
- athletic mouthguards (1)
- palatal expander (1)
- facial pain (3)
- tmd (1)
- tmj (1)
- jaw pain (3)
- frenectomy (1)
- wisdom teeth (4)
- removable dentures (1)
- porcelain veneers (5)
- orthognathic surgery (1)
- jaw surgery (1)
- tooth decay (7)
- trigeminal neuralgia (2)
- bone grafting (2)
- bonding (1)
- fluoride (2)
- retainers (2)
- oral appliance (1)
- night guard (1)
- teeth wear (1)
- sealants (2)
- pediatric care (1)
- sensitive teeth (1)
- veneers (3)
- extractions (1)
- chipped tooth (2)
- impacted teeth (1)
- teeth grinding (2)
- oral cancer (2)
- retainer (2)
- dental cleaning (1)
- antibiotics (1)
- mouthguards (4)
- bone graft (1)
- bone loss (1)
- thumb sucking (2)
- diabetes (2)
- x-rays (1)
- sports drinks (1)
- extraction (1)
- tooth loss (1)
- gerd (1)
- tmj disorders (2)
- root canal treatment (3)
- dental implant (3)
- fillings (1)
- smile makeover (3)
- dry socket (1)
- sedation dentistry (2)
- teething (1)
- dentures (2)
- wedding day smile (1)
Think You're Too Old for Orthodontics? Read This
You’ve lived most of your life with crooked teeth and an imperfect smile. You feel you should have done something about it years ago, but now you’re approaching your golden years — what would be the point?
Here’s the point: there’s a growing trend of older adults undergoing orthodontic treatment. People are discovering the life-changing benefits of straightening their teeth — even if they’re no longer teenagers.
So, what’s really holding you back?
I’m too old to have my teeth straightened. Not true — teeth can be straightened at any age, not just during childhood or adolescence. If anything would prevent orthodontic treatment it would be the state of your oral and general health, not your age. Your teeth’s supporting bone must be reasonably sound and healthy; likewise, systemic problems like bleeding disorders, leukemia and uncontrolled diabetes can make orthodontics difficult. But if you and your mouth are reasonably healthy, you can have your teeth straightened.
It’s too much to spend just to look better. Yes, orthodontic treatment can transform your smile — but it can also improve your oral health. Misaligned teeth are harder to keep clean, increasing the risks for tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease; they also don’t work well together so chewing is more difficult. By correcting your bite, you can reduce your chances of dental disease and improve overall mouth function.
I’d look silly at my age in braces. Self-consciousness about wearing these traditional appliances is common at any age. It’s understandable — the glint of metal is the first thing people see when you smile. But there’s a good chance you may be able to wear an alternative appliance that’s barely noticeable: clear aligners. These are a series of removable, clear plastic trays that you wear in sequence to gradually move your teeth. Not only are they less noticeable than braces, you can take them out for special occasions.
Don’t let these or other excuses keep you from a more attractive smile and healthy mouth. Visit your dentist for an examination to see if orthodontics can work for you.
If you would like more information on transforming your smile through orthodontics, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation. You can also learn more about this topic by reading the Dear Doctor magazine article “Orthodontics for the Older Adult.”