In movies, TV, and books, the characters most likely to wear traditional braces are adolescent young people. Braces are commonly viewed as a rite of passage for teenagers, but are they effective for adults, too? When considering how to straighten your teeth, you may wonder if you no longer fit within the age range for metal brackets and wires. Fortunately, there is good news. Keep reading to learn more about adult braces and why they might just be the perfect solution for your smile.
Fact #1: Braces Will Not Be on Forever
When comparing the timeline for traditional braces among teenagers and adults, it is true that younger individuals with the same alignment and bite issues are likely to spend less time receiving orthodontic treatment. The reason is that their jawbones and other oral and facial structures are not firmly in place yet, so it is easier to move their teeth and jaws into a new position. The teeth of adults move more slowly on average.
However, just because you are an adult does not mean you’ll be required to wear braces for the rest of your life. Depending on the severity of your situation and the type of orthodontics you receive, you may only spend a few months wearing them.
With the various technologies used today as well as the more accurate precision delivered by skilled orthodontists, you’ll experience a more efficient process than ever before.
Fact #2: Braces Are Likely to Be More Affordable
As an adult, you can put your hard-earned money back in preparation for orthodontic treatment. Wearing these appliances doesn’t have to require you to empty your savings or forgo a straighter smile.
There are various ways to pay for braces, one of which is your dental insurance. If you have a plan that covers orthodontics, you’ll pay much less than if you were paying out of pocket. But even if private dental insurance isn’t an option, Grayslake Orthodontics (as well as many other orthodontists) offers zero-interest in-office financing throughout the course of your treatment. These plans help you stay within your budget with manageable monthly payments.
Fact #3: There Are Multiple Options to Choose From
When meeting with your orthodontist to discuss which method of treatment you require, brackets and wires might be the best solution. However, if the idea of wearing braces that are highly visible among colleagues, family, and friends doesn’t sound like something you want to pursue, you now have bracket material options to choose from.
Advancements in the world of orthodontics allow patients like yourself to undergo treatment with clear/ceramic braces. They work the same as traditional metal brackets but use clear or ceramic materials, so they’re more discreet.
You can also inquire about invisible clear aligners. Your orthodontist will determine if aligners can be used to fix your dental problems.
When it comes to wearing braces, there is no age cap. Straightening your teeth can be one of the most worthwhile investments you can make, so don’t hesitate to ask about treatment if you want to enjoy life with a healthier, more perfectly aligned smile.
About the Practice
Grayslake Orthodontics is a family-friendly practice that is committed to delivering exceptional results with the help of traditional orthodontics, clear aligners, dentofacial orthopedics, oral appliances, and even special needs orthodontics. We treat patients of all ages and are pleased to help adults recapture their beautiful smile with traditional braces. Visit our website or call us at (847) 548-4330 if you would like to discuss the possibility of using braces or aligners to improve your appearance.
