A dream smile is for all ages.
S0me of our adult patients often think that they are too old for orthodontic treatment, but let us assure you: it is never too late to have your dream smile.
There are many reasons why adults decide to seek orthodontic treatment. Some people have always wanted to improve their smile but never had the opportunity to do so. Others may have had braces as a child but did not wear their retainers as instructed and now find themselves with crooked teeth once again.
No matter what your reason or problem may be, it is never too late to achieve a straighter smile. And while there may be some benefits tied to early treatment, treatment as an adult can still prevent oral health problems.
There are different aspects to take into consideration when opting for orthodontic appliances. Read on to find out all the ins and outs of orthodontic treatment for adults and which treatment could best suit you and your lifestyle.
Braces for Adults
Though traditional braces are often used in treating children and teens, more and more adults are opting in to get this orthodontic treatment to achieve their perfect smile.
There are many reasons an adult may choose to get braces, including improving their smile and correcting alignment issues over time.
If you’re considering getting braces as an adult, it is essential to consult with an experienced orthodontist to discuss your options. There are different types of adult braces available, and your orthodontist will work with you to determine the best procedure of treatment based on your individual needs.
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are standard regular braces. Its metal brackets are made of high-grade stainless steel and are very strong and durable. Metal braces are more affordable than other braces, but they can be more noticeable than clear or ceramic braces.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces are made of clear or tooth-coloured brackets and are less visible than metal braces. It may be a suitable option for braces for adults concerned about their smiles’ appearance, but it can be more expensive.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are less visible as they are attached to the back of the teeth. This type of brace is an excellent option for adults concerned about the appearance of metal braces.
Lingual braces can be more challenging to clean and may not be a good option for people who have gum disease.
These braces are custom-made and require a longer treatment time than traditional ones. However, it is an excellent choice for adults who want to perfect their smiles without metal braces.
Why do Adults need it?
While many people link orthodontic treatment with teenagers, more and more adults seek treatment to achieve the smile they’ve always wanted. There are several reasons why adults may need or want orthodontic treatment.
Tooth decay
It is one of the most common oral health problems in adults as well as children. It can occur at any age and, if left untreated, lead to severe oral problems, such as tooth loss.
It is important to brush and floss regularly to avoid this, however it can still occur.
Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth can cause various dental health issues as it is easier to clean straight teeth, no matter your age.
Food particles can very quickly get stuck between crooked teeth. Once trapped, these particles cause bacteria to accumulate and turn into plaque. The build-up of plaque causes gum disease. Perhaps your teeth were never straightened as a child, and now they’re causing you jaw pain or making it difficult to chew.
Orthodontic treatment is an effective way to correct misaligned teeth and improve jaw joint function.
Can teeth be straightened even at 50?
The short answer is: Yes. We can straighten your smile as long as your teeth and gums are healthy. It is never too late to get braces. Even if you’re 50 years old, you can still straighten your teeth and improve your smile.
Don’t let age hinder you from getting the smile you’ve always wanted. Talk to our orthodontist or treatment consultant to discuss your treatment options.
Best Treatment Options for Adults (Best Adult Orthodontic Treatment Options)
Orthodontic treatment is very effective for adults and orthodontics offers several different treatment options here. Book an initial appointment with us to discuss the option that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, which use brackets and wires to move teeth, Invisalign aligners are custom-made from a clear, BPA-free plastic material that fits snugly over the teeth and is nearly invisible.
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, and that’s why it has been a popular orthodontic treatment for many of our adult patients.
Braces
If Invisalign isn’t right for you, we also offer plenty of teeth straightening options with braces. Adult braces aim to improve smiles and correct alignment issues that have developed over time. If you are unsure of the type of braces you want, it is best to consult your orthodontist.
Other than traditional braces there is also ceramic braces that blend in with your teeth. Ceramic braces are like metal braces but as they use different material to appear less visible.
Lingual braces are a good option for adult braces and are attached at the back of the teeth to make them less visible.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dental option that can be used to improve dental alignment in some cases. They are thin pieces of porcelain bonded to the front of the teeth that can give the appearance of straighter, whiter teeth.
What to Expect?
Orthodontic treatments can benefit people of all ages.
At a young age, orthodontic treatment can help ensure that the teeth are correctly aligned, to help prevent problems later on in life. And although it is common for children and teenagers, there are many benefits of orthodontic treatment for adults.
Improving dental health
Orthodontic treatment can help improve your overall dental health by correcting alignment issues that make it difficult to brush and floss properly. It also helps prevent tooth decay and reduce the risk of developing gum disease.
Aesthetics
Many adults feel self-conscious about their smiles and want to improve their appearance or self confidence. Orthodontic treatment can help improve the alignment of your teeth and help boost your confidence when smiling.
Function
Orthodontic treatment can also improve your bite and the function of your teeth, which leads to better overall dental health and function. If the teeth are correctly aligned, it will be easier to chew food properly.
Correcting previous treatment
In some cases, adults may need orthodontic treatment to correct previous treatment that was not wholly successful; it may be due to some factors, including growth and changes in the mouth over time.
Are there any disadvantages?
One difference is the treatment time. You may have a longer treatment time depending on the severity of the issue. You may need to wear braces for a year or more.
It is essential to understand that the process may take longer for adults. It may be longer because adult bones are no longer growing and may be more resistant to change.
However, this does not mean that treatments will not be effective. With the help of an experienced orthodontist, you can achieve the smile you have always wanted.
Get started
Smile Team‘s adult orthodontics services will meet your needs with our friendly, experienced professionals and advanced technology. As one of our orthodontic patients, we offer services you can depend on.
Orthodontic treatment for adults can be a great way to improve your smile. But it is important to consider how treatment will affect your professional life as it takes time, effort and even your payment plans.
If you are considering adult orthodontic treatment, it is important to consult with one of our treatment consultants or orthodontists to discuss your options and determine if treatment is right for you. Orthodontic treatment can provide numerous aesthetic and functional benefits and help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
