Adults often question themselves whether or not to get braces and they feel like it might already be too late to achieve that perfect smile. But the good thing is, with all the modern orthodontic developments, getting braces for adults has become simpler, more effective, more comfortable, and more discreet than ever.
So, let’s get into everything you need to learn about adult braces and how they will help you achieve the perfect smile you’ve always wanted.
Why Get Braces as an Adult?
Braces are not only used for aesthetic reasons. Many adults opt for orthodontic treatment to correct dental issues like misalignment or bite issues that were likely undetected during their teenage years. Over time, teeth can shift due to wear and tear, habits, or simply the natural aging process. If this has caused your smile to shift in any way, then adult braces might be the right solution for you.
Another compelling argument for considering braces as an adult is to ward off more serious dental issues in the future. Crookedness in your teeth can increase the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and jaw pain since they’re difficult to keep clean and maintain. Thus giving braces for adults an added layer of defense in your oral health arsenal. Straightening them will not only enhance appearances but can improve oral well-being overall as well.
Not to mention how a straighter and more confident smile can boost anyone’s confidence significantly. Whether for personal or professional reasons, having an appealing smile can change one’s perception of themselves.
Are Adult Braces Different from Teen Braces?
On one level, adult braces work similarly to their counterparts for adolescents in that they shift your teeth into better alignment. However, there may be slight variances in how treatment differs for adults versus younger patients.
One key factor is that adults’ bones have stopped growing, which may add some time to the process. Teenagers typically see faster results as their bones continue to expand and become more flexible. But there is no reason to stress about it. Your orthodontist will work with you to develop a treatment plan customized specifically to your age and needs.
Adults often face more complex dental issues than teens, including missing teeth, gum disease, or previous dental work that needs additional attention. Therefore, you must consult with an expert orthodontist who can assess your personal needs and recommend the optimal treatment plan.
Different Types of Braces for Adults
When you need to choose from different options for braces as an adult, you will be provided with various choices. Orthodontic practices have come a long way, and there is no longer a need to settle for bulky metal braces. Here are the most popular types of braces for adults:
Traditional Metal Braces
Though you may think of metal braces as a traditional option, they remain one of the most effective ways of straightening teeth. They are made using stainless steel and include metal brackets and wires that work to move the teeth into place. Metal braces today are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable than ever before, so if aesthetic concerns are less of a priority for you, this could be an excellent solution.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces that offer a less noticeable and aesthetically pleasing solution for adults who need something less noticeable than metal. Their clear or tooth-colored brackets blend in more with your natural teeth, making them less noticeable compared to conventional metal braces. While still visible up close, ceramic braces are one of the great options for adults who want a less obvious approach to braces.
Invisalign
If complete discretion is what you are looking for in your teeth-straightening options, Invisalign is your best solution. This treatment makes use of clear removable aligners that fit over your teeth and work to shift them into the desired place. The transparent materials make Invisalign nearly invisible as it straightens your teeth without braces being noticeable. Furthermore, they can be removed to eat, drink, and brush your teeth conveniently, making Invisalign an attractive option for many adults.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed behind your teeth, so they remain visually undetectable from the front, making them ideal for adults who wish to straighten their teeth without anyone noticing. While more difficult to clean and adjust initially, lingual braces provide a discreet solution that provides effective teeth alignment treatments with little chance of anyone knowing.
Benefits of Braces for Adult
Braces for adults offer more benefits than just aesthetics. Here are a few key advantages of opting for straightening your teeth as an adult:
- Straighten Your Teeth for Better Oral Health: Straightening your teeth can improve your bite, make brushing and flossing simpler, prevent gum disease and tooth decay, and ultimately help create better oral health overall.
- Improved Confidence: Smiling can have a hugely positive effect on our self-esteem. From speaking in front of an audience to simply conversing with friends, displaying a beautiful straight smile will only increase confidence levels and bring out its best features.
- Long-Term Investment: Although braces may seem like an expensive decision upfront, they could help avoid future dental problems that would otherwise require costly treatments down the road.
Find Braces for Adults Near You With Dietrich Kelso Orthodontics
If you want to begin the journey towards a perfect smile, locating an orthodontist near you is essential. A quick online search for braces near me or an orthodontist near me will help you find professionals who can aid you in finding suitable treatment options for you. Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics are well known for their exceptional expertise and patient care and they can offer you a range of braces options, including traditional, Invisalign, or customized solutions. Also, their team will guide you through every step of the treatment with personalized care to provide the optimal solution tailored to your unique requirements.
People Often Ask These Questions
Are braces for adults even effective?
With all the developments in orthodontic practices, adult braces have not only become an effective option but there are also multiple options of braces that one can choose as per their preferences.
Are braces for adults worth it?
Getting braces as adults is highly valuable as, with age, you may face more dental issues than ever. Properly aligned teeth can contribute to improved oral hygiene. Thus, you can prevent dental issues in the long term.
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
The procedure usually takes up to two hours, and it is mostly painless. You may feel a little tenderness or soreness after the treatment, but it will soon fade away.