What to Expect from Adult Braces
Getting braces at any age can deliver significant aesthetic and oral health improvements
Are you considering getting braces as an adult? Here is some information that will help you understand what to expect during treatment and what kinds of benefits you can enjoy afterwards.
You’re Not Alone
First of all, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone in the desire to get braces well past your teenage years. Many, many adults are deciding to get braces later in life, and in fact almost half of all orthodontic patients in America are adults. Because an adult with braces is now a common sight, you don’t have to worry about being judged for getting orthodontic treatment at any age.
It Doesn’t Take Long
Most adults can expect to spend 12 to 20 months wearing braces. Considering that many people now live well into their golden years with their natural teeth still intact, investing a year or so of time now can result in decades of benefits.
Almost Any Problem Can Be Corrected
A skilled orthodontist can correct just about any type of problem affecting the alignment of your teeth or your bite. In some cases, additional procedures may be needed before or after your orthodontic treatment in order to give you the smile of your dreams. For example, you may need to have teeth extracted to allow severely crowded teeth to be straightened, or you may need to get oddly sized teeth covered with veneers.
Subtle Options Are Available
Many adults feel self-conscious about their crooked or gapped teeth, but fear that having braces would be just as bad. The fact of the matter is, current orthodontic technology allows for the treatment of tooth alignment and bite issues in ways that are extremely subtle and sometimes not even noticeable to the casual observer. For example, you could get clear braces or use clear Invisalign trays to straighten your teeth without advertising this fact to the world.
Which is Better, Invisalign or Traditional Braces?
Depending on the nature of your tooth alignment and/or bite issues, how fast you want to see results, and your budget, your orthodontist may recommend traditional braces or Invisalign. Invisalign is a little more expensive, but it also makes for a much more convenient and comfortable treatment experience. Because the trays are removable, you will have no dietary restrictions and you won’t have to worry about food getting caught in your braces. It will also be easier to brush and floss your teeth during treatment. If you are a smoker wanting a subtle treatment option, Invisalign is preferable because you can remove the trays before smoking to avoid the discoloration that can affect clear braces.
The End Result
After treatment, you can expect to see improvements in your appearance, your confidence, and even your oral health. Many patients report having better personal and professional relationships once their fear of displaying their crooked teeth was gone. And dentists report that patients with straighter teeth experience fewer problems with gum disease and tooth decay because there are fewer nooks and crannies to trap food particles and bacteria. Over 90 percent of adults who have had braces recommend orthodontic treatment to other adults. Try it yourself and find out why they’re so happy!
