Adult Braces

Childhood is the optimal time for straightening the teeth. However, for one reason or another, people many times don’t make that choice in their youth. One reason for this is the high cost of braces. An average range of the cost of braces is $5,000 to $7,500.

Braces are not used only to give an aesthetically appealing mouth. While there is an obvious cosmetic reason for straightening one’s teeth, there are also important health considerations. Irregular teeth can make dental care difficult. They are difficult to clean, which may cause problems with teeth and gums. A bad bite may cause chewing and swallowing difficulties. Poor tooth alignment can cause speech difficulties and can also result in facial pain.

It is common nowadays for an adult to get braces. In fact, 20 percent of orthodontic patients are now over the age of 18. Many feel that it is worth it to get braces for professional reasons.

If you are considering braces at any age, Runnels Orthodontics can help – located in Destin and Panama City Beach. We offer treatments for patients of all ages, including different types of braces. To schedule your appointment and find out the best treatment options for you, contact Runnels Orthodontics today.

There are a few things to keep in mind when going for orthodontic treatment as an adult. First, since your bones have stopped growing as an adult, some types of alterations cannot be done without surgery. Second, the time that it takes to complete treatment may be longer as an adult. The average treatment time is about two years. Third, you may need to see a periodontist to make sure that bone loss from gum disease is not complicating things.

There have been many innovations in braces since you were a kid. Nowadays, braces are more painless to wear and less pronounced than the ones you may be used to. Braces are typically less noticeable, using fewer brackets. Sometimes younger people opt for a bolder look, using colored wires.

Less noticeable ceramic or clear plastic parts are available for people who want to conceal their braces. There are some drawbacks to them, however. Ceramic parts can break, and they may not be as comfortable on the lower teeth as metal brackets, which tend to be smaller.

Another option is what is called a lingual appliance. It goes on the back of the teeth so the brackets and wires don’t show when you smile. The drawback is that they are more expensive and require more care than regular braces.

If you are worried that wearing braces will get in the way of your social or professional life, keep in mind just how discreet and invisible they can be nowadays. Evidence of this comes from Hollywood, where numerous stars had or are having their teeth done. Both Tom Cruise and Faith Hill have been seen in public with unobtrusive braces. Justin Bieber and Katherine Heigl have chosen clear aligners, which are custom-made trays for the teeth, which apply pressure from the shape.

In summary, a lot of adults nowadays are getting braces. You don’t have to feel like the odd man out. Braces now can be a discreet choice, some of them being almost entirely invisible. There are now many options, and at Runnels Orthodontics, we can help you determine which treatment option is right for you.