Am I Too Old for Braces?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, one in four patients is an adult. With so many options available in modern orthodontics, there’s no reason to put off a beautiful smile. There are many treatment options available to reduce treatment time. 

With all the effort put towards eating right, staying fit, and otherwise taking care of themselves, there is no reason why adults should not have beautiful teeth! There are many benefits to getting braces at any age. Everyone wants a straight and gorgeous smile and the positives do not stop with appearance. When teeth are crowded or badly positioned, it can lead to serious problems in the future. A poor bite can affect the function of the teeth and can even lead to tooth loss and gum disease. 

Don’t wait any longer for the smile you deserve! There is no better time than the present to schedule a complimentary exam. 

Treatment Options

There are a few options for orthodontic treatment. Traditional metal or ceramic bracket braces are a possibility as well as self-ligating braces like Damon braces. These options are more visible and feature brackets and wires. Invisalign is also an option. Invisalign is clear and offers a discreet alternative many adults pursuing orthodontic treatment prefer.

Many cases of adults who need orthodontics result in Invisalign. Invisalign is a great option for later-in-life orthodontics because you don’t need to change your diet or brushing habits to accommodate the aligners (that is, if you had a healthy diet and brushing routine before aligners!). 

Why Orthodontics is Always a Good Idea

Orthodontic health has a direct impact on dental health. With or without a referral from your dentist you can schedule a free consultation, but sometimes your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist to address specific concerns. 

A beautiful smile is a great reason to receive orthodontic care, but it’s the tip of the iceberg when looking at the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Crowded or crooked teeth can lead to gum disease or worsen existing gum disease. Most adults have some degree of gum disease or gingivitis, but in some extreme cases, it can progress into periodontitis. Orthodontics can sometimes help make sure this doesn’t happen. Other dental diseases can be prevented with good orthodontic health as well. 

In addition to a healthier mouth, straighter teeth can also mean a healthier mind. Your smile’s improvement can also mean an improvement in your self-confidence. Many adults are self-conscious of “ugly” teeth and visiting an orthodontist can solve this issue!

The Physiology of Braces

There is no difference in the science of moving and straightening teeth in adults versus children. The physiology remains the same, you are a candidate for orthodontic treatment regardless of age. Adults undergoing orthodontic treatment may hear that it will take longer than a similar process would with a teen or child. This is because adults are no longer growing. Adult  bones are more mature and therefore denser, so orthodontic treatment takes longer. 

The best way to make sure your treatment is as fast as possible is to keep up with your appointments and wear any appliances or elastics as prescribed by your orthodontist.