Braces For Adults: Is it Too Late for a Straighter Smile?
I went to the dentist last week and she recommended I get braces. It came as a bit of shock, I never ever thought I would need braces and to be honest, it’s taking me a while to come around to the idea. My dentist giggled at my resistance, and said “don’t worry, it goes really fast”.
It turns out I’m not alone. Many adults may think that braces are just for children and teenagers, but this is not the case.
In fact, more and more adults are turning to orthodontics to improve their oral health, self-confidence, and overall dental function.
The Benefits of Braces for Adults
Braces Liverpool can improve oral health and hygiene by straightening teeth and correcting bite and jaw issues. This can lead to better overall dental function and can also increase self-confidence and self-esteem.
Clear or ceramic braces, lingual braces and Invisalign are some of the types of orthodontics available for adults.
The process as an adult
The process of getting orthodontics as an adult begins with a consultation with a dental professional. The professional will develop a customised treatment plan based on the patient’s individual needs. Treatment can take anywhere from several months to a couple of years, and cost and insurance coverage will vary depending on the type of teeth straightening selected.
Potential drawbacks and considerations
While orthodontics can offer many benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. Some patients may experience discomfort or pain during treatment, and may feel self-conscious about their appearance while wearing braces. Additionally, there may be changes in speech or eating habits.
Advantages of modern braces
One of the biggest advantages of modern dentistry is that many contemporary braces are more discreet than traditional metal orthodontics. Clear or ceramic options are less visible, and lingual correctors are placed on the back of the teeth, making them completely invisible. Invisalign is a clear plastic aligner which is custom-made to fit over the teeth and is virtually invisible.
The importance of regular check-ups
It is important to remember that these are a long-term commitment and regular check-ups with a dental professional are essential to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned. The dental professional will make any necessary adjustments to the orthodontics to ensure that the teeth are moving in the desired direction.
Retention after treatment
After everything is removed, a retention plan will be established to ensure that the teeth stay in their new position. This may include wearing a retainer for a certain period of time, or visiting the dental professional for regular check-ups to monitor that the positioning of teeth remains stable.
Advantages of clear retainers
Clear or ceramic retainers are a popular option for adults who are self-conscious about their appearance during treatment. These are made of a clear or tooth-coloured material, making them less visible than traditional metal braces. They work in the same way as metal ones and can be just as efficient in straightening teeth.
The importance of professional care
It’s important to remember that braces are a medical treatment and should only be carried out by a qualified professional.
An orthodontist or a general dental practitioner with training in orthodontics will be able to provide the best care and advice.
A professional will be able to determine the optimal course of treatment, and provide the necessary follow-up care to ensure the best possible outcome.
Conclusion
Overall, orthodontics can be a great option for adults looking to improve their oral health and self-confidence. It’s important for patients to consult with a dental professional to determine the most advantageous course of treatment for their individual needs.
Have you been advised to get braces as an adult? Did you feel some resistance to the idea? I’m slowly coming around, although so far, I’m only okay with the idea of invisible aligners.
Related: Improve Your Teeth and Smile with Invisible Aligners
