Most people think that braces are only for teenagers. However, you can get braces almost at any age.
The orthodontic apparatus can improve the appearance and function of the teeth by moving them to the best position for each individual. This is beneficial no matter how old the patient receiving treatment is.
More adults are conscious of their appearance and keep more of their original teeth as their lifespan and quality of living have improved over the years. Why shouldn’t everyone be able to enjoy the benefits of healthy, straight teeth?
Metal braces are still viewed as outdated by many adults. Orthodontic technology has improved more than most people realize. There are now more options than there were when they were children.
Here is a guide on the most popular types of adult braces to help you choose the best option for you.
Why do adults require braces?
As you age, your adult teeth may not always stay in their original position. Biting, drinking, and chewing can cause teeth to wear down, causing them to shift. This can lead to gum issues. Even if braces were worn as a child and you still wear them, changing your lifestyle or not wearing retainers can cause teeth to become misaligned over time.
The use of braces is not just for cosmetic reasons. They also help correct your bite, make it easier to keep your mouth clean and reduce the pressure on your jaw. This will decrease your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Untreated, it can cause serious health problems such as loss of jaw bone density and heart disease.
Braces can improve your smile’s health and appearance, even if you are only concerned with vanity. Adult braces are just as effective in correcting dental problems that cause people to feel self-conscious.
- Overcrowding and crooked teeth
- Overbites and underbites
- Gaps between teeth and open bites
- Jaw irregularities (such asymmetry)
Correction of these problems can treat the problems that they have caused, such as pain or difficulty chewing and speaking. Orthodontic treatment may be the answer if you’ve been struggling with these issues for a long time.
Adult orthodontics
Most braces for children and adults can be used to correct misaligned adult teeth.
There are pros and cons to each type, so the suitability of braces will vary depending on your individual dental needs. What you should know about adult braces.
Metal Braces
The most common braces, which have been in use for decades, are traditional braces. However, they have evolved over the years with the introduction of smaller brackets.
The metal braces are made by attaching brackets of stainless steel to the teeth and then securing the wire with small rubber bands. The wire and bands exert pressure on teeth, causing them to gradually shift into the desired position.
Metal braces are very visible. This means that everyone will see them when they smile, talk, or eat. You may also find it difficult to eat some foods, such as hard or sticky ones. They require more cleaning.
They are still the most popular type of braces, however, because they are the fastest and most affordable option for many misalignments. The conventional braces will likely be the most effective option to correct more complex issues. This is because an adult’s mouth is more rigid and requires more force in order to move teeth.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are an amalgamation of metal braces, which have been used for years, and clear braces. The brackets have the exact same function and are usually the same size and form, but, as their name implies, they are made of ceramic instead of metal.
The rubber bands and wires can also be made clearer or coloured to match your teeth, making them less visible. It has the same effect, but is less noticeable. This is perfect for adults who need the pressure of traditional braces without the metal brackets.
Ceramic braces may still be visible, but they are more attractive than metal braces. They also don’t appear as prominently in photos. Ceramic braces are more expensive and require more care than traditional braces.
Ceramic brackets are more susceptible to staining and will remain on your teeth after treatment until they are removed by your orthodontist. This means you need to be extra vigilant about cleaning your teeth regularly and thoroughly, as well as avoiding staining foods and beverages.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are another alternative to traditional braces. They use the same method, but slightly differently. The brackets, also known as inside brackets, are attached to the back rather than the front of the teeth, making it the most “invisible” type of bracket and wire braces.
The treatment is more expensive because they are custom-made for the contours of each tooth. It also takes a little longer for them to be fitted and to move the teeth into their correct position. It may be worth the cost for adults who require traditional braces, but do not want them visible.
Their placement makes it more difficult to clean. Avoid the same foods that you would when wearing traditional braces and learn to clean your teeth’s backs more thoroughly.
As they are placed closer to your mouth, lingual braces may be uncomfortable. They can cause sores or affect your speech when your tongue is in contact with them. As you become accustomed to the braces, this should lessen.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are the most popular choice for modern orthodontic treatment. They are made of flexible plastic and are moulded around your teeth. They are changed every two weeks to help guide your teeth in the desired alignment. Clear aligners are almost invisible because they are transparent.
Clear aligners are similar to removable retainers that you wear overnight to maintain your braces’ results. However, they actually move teeth into a different position slowly. They must be worn for 20-22 hours per day in order to accomplish this. Only remove them when you eat or drink and clean your teeth first before putting them in.
Invisalign is the most popular brand of clear aligners among adults. They want to straighten teeth without anyone knowing. Aligners are usually more comfortable than braces because they don’t have brackets or wires that can cause friction in your mouth. Aligners don’t require you to alter your diet because they are removed when eating and drinking.
Invisalign can often be more expensive and require more work. Every two weeks, you have to change aligners and clean them every time that you eat or drink something other than water.
It can take longer for them to correct teeth that are more severe or have a misaligned mouth.
How long do adult braces last?
The length of orthodontic treatment can vary between one and two years depending on how complex the misalignment is and what type of aligners or braces you select.
If you choose aligners instead of braces, it may take longer to correct the problem. Aligners are usually used for routine straightening and can take anywhere from 6-18 months. Conventional braces, on the other hand, can take up to 2 years.
You can also choose to switch from one treatment to the next during your straightening process. For example, you may start with braces, then switch to aligners, or vice-versa. This can sometimes speed up a treatment that would have otherwise taken longer.
How well you adhere to your treatment plan, and how well your braces or aligners are taken care of will also determine the effectiveness of your treatment. You may not achieve the desired result as quickly as you thought if you don’t follow the instructions and clean the device.
This applies to adults, teens, and children alike. There’s no limit to how old you can be to get braces. Children are the best candidates because their jaws are still growing and more malleable.
Adults may need braces for longer if their teeth are in worse condition due to not receiving treatment. For example, you might have gum disease or cavities that require additional treatments before you consider orthodontics.
What adult braces is right for you
Adult orthodontic treatment is a great investment, especially with the increasing popularity of braces and the wide range of options available. Straightening your teeth is a simple way to improve your health, your confidence and your happiness. You may regret not having adult braces earlier.
The best braces for adults will depend on the circumstances of your life. You’ll need to consider the following factors:
- Budget — How much money are you willing spend on braces for adults? Are there any dental financing options to spread out the monthly cost?
- Time — How soon do you need results? How long will you wear the braces and aligners, as well as follow the care regimens required?
- Teeth– Is there a treatment that is more effective for you than another? Which treatment would be the most effective for you?
You should first consult an orthodontist who will assess your bite and teeth condition and recommend the best options for treatment to achieve the desired results. Your orthodontist will make the final decision, but you should follow their expert advice.
The orthodontist that you visit will determine the type of treatment available to you and its quality. It is important to choose a dental practice that has a great reputation and is highly qualified. If you are looking for orthodontics Warrington then Dental Solutions’ outstanding team would be delighted to assist you.
