Many adult patients come to us asking if metal braces are suitable for their age. They feel ashamed about wearing metal braces, and their reasoning is that they’re no longer children. Unfortunately, there’s a misconception spreading in our society that prevents many from receiving orthodontic solutions.
Another common concern is whether orthodontic treatment is a good option at their age.
Through our work, we aim to change all misconceptions and create a more inclusive and understanding environment. We believe that everyone deserves a healthy, confident smile, regardless of their age.
So, let’s work together to break down these barriers and create a healthier, happier community for all.
Are Metal Dental Braces Suitable for Adults?
In reality, metal teeth braces are a highly effective and common orthodontic treatment for adults. They offer precise control over tooth movement and can address even complex alignment issues. However, societal norms and misconceptions often lead adults to believe that metal braces are only for children and teenagers.
As an orthodontic professional, it’s my responsibility to educate my community about the benefits of adult orthodontics and dispel these myths.
Thanks to advancements in technology, adult metal braces are no longer limited to the traditional braces you may remember from your childhood. Clear metal braces or ceramic braces are alternative options that can give you a straight smile, just like traditional metal braces.
Let’s delve into this alternative solution together.
Clear Metal Braces- Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces, an alternative type of metal braces, were first introduced in 1986 as a more discrete, aesthetic option for individuals who seeking a less noticeable solution to straighten their smile.
Ceramic braces function similarly to traditional braces, but the brackets are made of clear ceramic or a tooth-colored material, making them difficult to notice from a distance. Ceramic braces are an effective approach for correcting moderate to severe teeth misalignments.
But how they work? Ceramic brackets are attached to the front of each tooth, with an archwire threaded through them. Depending on the bracket system’s mechanism, the archwire may or may not be held in place by ligature ties. These ties can be clear or colored, based on the patient’s choice —however, most adults prefer clear ties.
The braces and archwires work together to guide the teeth into their desired positions.
Treatment duration
Determining the treatment duration is challenging, as each case is unique. On average, patients should expect treatment to last between 1 to 3 years. As your teeth gradually move into the desired position, we monitor your progress along the way and adjust braces if necessary.
Now, it’s time to learn about the pros and cons of ceramic braces.
Advantages of ceramic braces
- Effective solution in most cases
- Nearly invisible from a distance
- MRI-Safe
- Hypoallergenic
Disadvantages of ceramic braces
- More fragile than traditional metal braces
- Bulkier than traditional braces
- Inflexible and hard to remove; only your orthodontist can remove them
- Difficult to clean
- More expensive than traditional metal braces
Now, let’s talk about the second common concern and see what’s Dr. Mir’s opinion.
Are Braces for Adults Worth it?
Absolutely! When it comes to orthodontic treatment and straightening your smile, age is just a number. While it may be easier to achieve a desired result at a younger age, it’s not a universal rule of thumb. If you have healthy gum and teeth, you can achieve a beautiful, confident smile just as quickly as a younger person.
Another Option for Straightening Adult Teeth
A common question we often encounter is: “Does Invisalign work for adults?” The answer is a resounding yes, especially if your misalignment is mild to moderate.
Please notice that one in every five of our patients are adults, so you’re never too late to have orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign is an excellent option for adults in their 40s, 50s, or even 60s. It’s a discrete, clear, and removable option that can straighten your smile. Since Invisalign aligners are removable, they give you the flexibility to remove them during special occasions.
Let’s discover the famous people who underwent orthodontic treatment at a later age.
Famous People Who Underwent Orthodontic Treatment at Age 40 or Above
Chris Joy, a financial planner in Mississauga, is one example of someone who underwent orthodontic treatment at the age of 62!
She has a famous quote: “When you’re in the service industry, smiles are important.”
Other famous people include:
- Tom Cruise: He got braces in his early 40s to correct misalignments.
- Faith Hill: The country singer got braces in her late 40s.
- Gwen Stefani: She had braces in her early 40s.
- Dakota Johnson: The Hollywood actress got braces in her early 30s.
- Danny Glover: The Hollywood actor got braces in his 60s to correct his bits.
Why We Insist in Orthodontic Treatment?
Another significant misconception is that orthodontic treatment is solely a cosmetic issue. However, straightening your smile goes beyond aesthetics, as it’s directly related to your overall well-being.
Apart from the confidence that a beautiful smile can bring, numerous studies have shown a direct correlation between poor oral health and diseases like diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
Always remember, as we age, maintaining good oral health becomes increasingly important. Sometimes, even a single misaligned tooth can lead to significant problems.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that no matter your age, you can still effectively achieve a straighter smile. There are multiple options available to help you reach this goal, including metal braces, ceramic braces, or even Invisalign.
Invisalign Lens
At York Orthodontics, we recently added Invisalign Lens technology, promising more effective teeth alignment. The Invisalign Virtual Care Lens, or Invisalign Lens for short, is a remote monitoring system for Invisalign patients, allowing virtual check-ins between office visits. It’s an ideal solution for busy patients who can’t visit the office regularly but still want to ensure their treatment progresses smoothly.
Invisalign Lens is a small device attached to your smartphone that allows you to easily take photos of your teeth and send them to us. Using the photos you send, we can identify any potential issues early on.
The benefits of the Invisalign lens
- Timely intervention: Early detection of any issues for prompt treatment
- More precise & accurate treatment: The AI captures even minor issues, aiding in required adjustment and preventing further complications
- Fewer Office visits: One of the main benefits of the Invisalign lens is that it reduces the number of required office visits— a great news for busy people
- Peace of mind: Staying informed and involved in your treatment journey gives you peace of mind, knowing your treatment is progressing smoothly.
Bottom Line
Orthodontic treatment, including metal braces and Invisalign, is an effective option for adults seeking to achieve a straighter smile. Despite societal misconceptions, age should not be a barrier to achieving your dream smile. With advancements in technology and treatment options, adults can now choose from a variety of orthodontic solutions that fit their lifestyle and needs.
At York Orthodontics, we are committed to providing our adult patients with the highest quality of care and treatment. Whether you opt for traditional metal braces or Invisalign, our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Don’t let age hold you back from achieving a beautiful, confident smile. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about your orthodontic options and start your journey towards a straighter smile.
Remember, a straighter smile is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about improving your oral health and overall well-being. Invest in yourself and your smile today for a brighter tomorrow.
