In the past, braces were associated with teenagers, but that misconception is changing fast. More and more adults are getting the advantage of improved dental health and a beautiful smile through braces. If you are embarrassed by misaligned teeth that are detrimental to your self-confidence, it may be time to learn more about braces for adults.
There are many reasons that adults may need braces. They may have needed them since childhood, but never received treatment. Crooked, crowded teeth and underbites and overbites are the most common reasons adults need braces. If these conditions are not treated, they can result in gum disease, tooth decay, chewing and speaking problems as well as headaches and earaches.
Adults may receive the same benefits from braces that children get, but the treatment may take longer. The average treatment time for adults is between 18 months and three years. When the treatment is complete and the braces are removed, adults may also need to wear a retainer to keep the teeth in their new position.
During a consultation with our orthodontist, you may learn if braces are the right treatment for your oral problems. You may have certain tests and X-rays as well as impressions of your teeth taken for our specialist to determine the type of treatment you need. You will have the opportunity to learn how braces for adults can correct your problem and approximately how long you will need to wear them.
Many adults hesitate to get the orthodontic treatment they need because they do not want to wear metal braces. They consider metal braces as unattractive and not worth the effort to get their teeth straightened. However, there are other options that are not as obvious and some that are practically invisible.
Ceramic braces look and work like metal braces, but they are made out of colored ceramic or plastic to blend with the color of your teeth. They are much less noticeable than metal braces, especially from a distance and in photographs.
Lingual braces are applied to the back of your teeth and are completely hidden from view. They take longer to get used to because they are in the same part of your mouth as your tongue. However, they are a great options for adults who want orthodontic discretion.
Invisible braces are completely different from traditional braces. They use clear, plastic aligners that you wear over your teeth like a mouth guard. The aligners gradually push your teeth into the correct position. A new aligner is used every two weeks until the teeth are in the right place. These aligners are virtually invisible and are often the top choice for adults who want to improve their dental health and appearance with braces.
Just as with teenagers, adults need to care for their braces properly and avoid eating certain hard or sticky foods. You can ask our specialist at Runnels Orthodontics about proper brushing and flossing techniques. Even for adults, it is not too late to have the confidence that an attractive smile can bring. Schedule an appointment at our office in Destin or Panama City Beach to learn about your options when it comes to braces for adults.
Dr. Runnels and his team proudly serve clients in Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Freeport, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Panama City Beach, Panama City and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule an orthodontic appointment.
