While it’s generally generally believed that people should get braces in late childhood or during their teenage years, you can still benefit greatly from getting braces for adults. While it’s typical for kids and teenagers to complete orthodontic treatment with braces, adults tend to be a bit hesitant to have braces. However, braces could be your best option for getting the smile you’ve always wanted. And when you straighten your smile, you’ll find there are plenty of benefits you’ll enjoy beyond your smile’s appearance.
Naturally, you may have some questions you want to have answered before you seriously look into getting braces as an adult. Here are some of the most common questions adults have about starting orthodontic treatment with braces.
Why Get Braces as an Adult?
Why not start off with the basics? If you never had orthodontic treatment as a teen, you might be wondering if it’s really worth it at this point. In short, it’s definitely worth it to improve your smile as an adult. For one, getting braces is about more than just improving appearances. When you straighten your teeth, you set yourself up for better oral health, reduced jaw pain, improved chewing, and clearer speech.
When you get rid of crowding, spacing, and crookedness, you’ll make it easier to clean your teeth while getting rid of the spaces food particles and plaque can get trapped in. As a result, you can expect to get fewer cavities after getting braces.
Of course, our teeth also help our overall appearance by brightening our smile, shaping our face, and providing us with confidence. A recent study even found that aligned teeth can improve your health, self-confidence, relationships, and career. You deserve to have your perfect smile and the confidence to show off your smile more.
Will My Treatment Take Longer as an Adult?
One advantage of getting braces earlier in life is the jaw is a bit more malleable, which makes tooth movement a bit easier and faster. However, if you decided not to get braces when you were younger, you’ll be impressed by how much braces have improved over the years. Modern braces are much more understated and sleek, resulting in a less noticeable appearance and better comfort. Both kids and adults now have access to better orthodontic technology than ever.
What Types of Braces Can I Get?
There are a wide variety of braces options, and adults can use any of them just like kids can. However, adults tend to prefer certain types over others.
Traditional silver braces
Made from stainless steel, each bracket attaches to your teeth using a safe adhesive and an arched wire. Silver braces are still one of the most popular styles of orthodontic treatment for adults and kids.
Gold braces
Want to have a little more fun with your smile while you straighten your teeth? Then you should check out gold braces. The fun hue of gold braces creates a classy and eye-catching look you’ll be excited to show off rather than wanting to hide your smile.
Ceramic braces
For patients who want their treatment to be more discreet, ceramic braces are an excellent choice because they are made out of ceramic brackets that are either clear or match the color of your teeth. This makes them much less noticeable while still effectively treating a wide range of malocclusions.
Mascot Braces®
College students definitely still qualify as adults, and you can add to your college experience by starting treatment with Mascot Braces. Support different college teams and rock your school spirit while you improve your smile.
Invisalign
This treatment works by using clear plastic trays, designed using 3D images of your teeth. Invisalign clear aligners are removable and invisible. There are no wires or brackets, which makes it easier to brush and floss. This is an excellent orthodontic solution for those wanting a discreet way to improve their smile. Depending upon your specific case, you could complete your treatment in as little as three to six months and will see results in just a few weeks.
Are Braces Expensive?
There are lots of ways to make your orthodontic treatment affordable, including convenient payment options through OrthoFi. Braces are also often covered in part by major dental insurance plans, which is a great way to avoid having to pay for treatment completely out of pocket.
And if you have a flexible spending account (FSA) through your employer or a health savings account (HSA), you can use those tax-free funds to make your braces more affordable.
What Can I Expect from My First Appointment?
During your initial exam, we’ll take a quick digital scan of your teeth to gather impressions and take an x-ray to get a look at your jaw. We’ll then be able to determine which orthodontic treatment options would be best for you.
To schedule your free consultation and to get answers to more of your questions about getting braces as an adult, contact Smith Orthodontics today!
