Teeth braces for adults? Should adults get braces? Many people wear braces as children or teenagers to straighten their smile. However, over time, teeth may shift back to their original position if retainers aren’t worn as prescribed. Or, some may not have had the chance to get braces during their growing years.
Whatever the reason, adult braces are definitely worth considering. Remember, a bad bite or crooked teeth can worsen over time, and misaligned teeth aren’t likely to make a good impression.
Because of all these reasons, we believe everyone deserves a straightened smile, whatever their age. It’s essential not only for oral health but also for mental health.
Note: Based on the American Association of Orthodontics, one in five orthodontic patients is an adult. The main reason for adult braces is to enhance their smile and boost their confidence. Proper teeth alignment not only promotes better oral health but also improved mental well-being.
You’re an adult and have these problems:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Crossbite
- Deep bite
- Diastema
- Facial or jaw irregularity
No problem. Thanks to our advancement in orthodontics, you can have a straight smile while others hardly notice you get braces. Let’s delve a bit into getting braces as an adult and open up this subject together.
The Difference between Dental Braces for Adults and for Children
Children between 10 and 14 years old are the most common age group to receive orthodontic treatment. That’s because, at this age, all permanent teeth have come in, and any dental crowding or bite issues become more noticeable. It’s an ideal time to correct dental or bite problems, as the teeth are still malleable. Many children have their braces on and off before high school begins.
Now, let’s answer our question: difference between adult braces and child braces. The main difference is that treatment for children is generally much shorter. For example, during the growing years, additional devices—if necessary—can be used alongside braces. These devices, such as headgear, space maintainers, or palatal expanders, can significantly reduce treatment time. However, these devices aren’t an option for adults, as their jawbones have already fully developed.
Does it mean adults have fewer chances to straighten their teeth, especially in severe cases? The answer is a big “No.” There are still many options available for adults. Let’s check these options together.
3 Best Dental Braces for Adults
We offer different styles braces, each tailored to meet your specific needs. Your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable option based on the severity of your dental issues, your personal preferences, and treatment goals. These options include:
Traditional Braces
Adult metal braces are an affordable and effective solution to fix mild to severe dental or bite issues. These braces are durable and can withstand most treatment forces. These braces are not only common among children and teenagers, but adults can also benefit from them if they don’t mind having visible brackets on their teeth for an approximately long period of time.
Ceramic Braces
One of the best braces for adults is ceramic braces, also known as clear braces. Their functionality is similar to that of metal braces—they’re the same size and shape—but they’re less visible, making them an ideal option for adults who prefer a more discreet appearance.
Like metal braces, ceramic braces consist of an archwire and rubber bands. However, instead of metal brackets, they use ceramic, tooth-colored brackets. The O-shaped rubber bands around each bracket are also clear or white, helping them blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
While ceramic braces aren’t completely invisible, they’re significantly less noticeable than traditional braces and offer a more aesthetically pleasing solution. As a result, many adults and teenagers prefer them over metal ones for a subtle, refined look.
Clear Aligners
When it comes to adult braces options, one of the relatively new solutions to straightening smiles is clear aligners. The most widely recognized brand of clear aligners is Invisalign. These aligners are a great option for teenagers and adults who seek a memorable, beautiful smile but look for an invisible, discreet option.
Invisalign aligners are clear, removable orthodontic aligners. Unlike ceramic or metal braces, which are bonded to the teeth, Invisalign aligners are more comfortable and don’t cause the irritation or soreness often associated with traditional metal braces.
Moreover, because they’re removable, there’s no need to follow a special diet. You can enjoy your favorite foods during your treatment. However, for effective treatment, you’ll need to commit to wearing braces for 20 to 22 hours per day. Every 2 weeks, you’ll need to switch to your new set of aligners to continue progressing toward your ideal smile.
An Important Note:
These days, we often see advertisements promoting “virtual orthodontics.” While these ads may seem impressive, offering a straight smile at a small price, it’s crucial to remember that your orthodontist should be the one to prescribe the right treatment after a thorough examination of your dental needs.Before getting braces, your mouth, gums, and teeth should be carefully evaluated for overall health, and a series of photographs should be taken to create a 3D impression of your teeth and mouth. These photographs are necessary to create custom-made aligners. Invisalign, for example, provides personalized aligners that are unique to each patient. Furthermore, throughout the treatment process, your orthodontist needs to monitor your progress and make adjustments if necessary.
Our advice? Ignore those ads. In most cases, opting for such unmonitored solutions could lead to additional costs down the line due to potential damage caused to your teeth, some of which may remain untreated. Always trust a professional with your smile.
Clear Aligners vs. Metal Braces
One of the common questions we've frequently asked is, “What’s the best teeth braces for adults, clear aligners or metal braces?”
The answer to the questions depends on the unique dental needs of a patient, their budget, preferences, and also their orthodontist's opinion. Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are the best and most discreet solution for mild to moderate dental issues. But to achieve the optimal result, patients need to be committed to the treatment and wear them for 20-22 hours per day.
Because Invisalign is removable, you’ll need to take them out while eating, brushing, and flossing. On the other hand, maintaining oral hygiene is much easier with clear aligners compared to traditional braces. Moreover, clear aligners are more aesthetically pleasing, offering a discreet alternative to metal braces. That said, metal braces remain the more effective option for addressing complex dental issues.
Which one is the right treatment for your unique need is something that your orthodontist should determine.
Advantages of Teeth Braces for Adults
- They can effectively enhance the appearance of the teeth, improve facial structure, and boost self-confidence.
- Straightening teeth not only improves your oral health but also your overall well-being.
- Cleaning straight teeth is much easier than crooked teeth, making them less likely to get decayed.
Orthodontic Treatment and Gum Disease
Overall, we have two major types of gum disease: gingivitis (mild) and periodontitis (severe). If you experienced each of them, you should see a periodontist as fast as possible.
Once you have one of which, you’re not allowed to undergo orthodontic treatment, as your orthodontic treatment will be ineffective when the supporting structure of your teeth is damaged. In this case, any orthodontic option can cause more damage.
Adult Braces Cost
- Braces: It ranges from $2,500 to $8,000
- Clear aligners: It ranges from $3,500 to $8,500
The cost typically depends on treatment time, the complexity of your issue, and the location and experience of your orthodontist.
Are Adult Braces Costs Covered by Insurances?
There are many insurances that cover part of the cost of your orthodontic treatment. To know about the details, please check with your insurance provider.
Moreover, at York Orthodontics, we offer many flexible payment plans, like weekly or monthly installments, to make your orthodontic journey much more affordable.
FAQ
If the price is not a matter, ceramic braces are the most popular option for adults, as they’re a less visible but effective solution to treat the wide majority of orthodontic problems.
Like children and teenagers, adults can benefit from braces. They can effectively improve adults’ dental issues and bring them the beautiful smile they always wanted.
The short answer is yes, unlike children and teenagers, the teeth and jawbone structures in adults have already fully developed, which leads to longer treatment time with braces. On average, children and teenagers need to wear braces for 16-24 months, while adults for 18 months to 3 years —or even more in some complex cases.
The discomfort associated with adult braces is the same for children and teens. During the first few days of getting braces, a patient may experience some sort of irritation, soreness, and discomfort; however, all of which will be easily handled using home remedies or over-the-counter painkillers.
There’s no age limit when it comes to dental braces. You can enjoy a straight, beautiful smile at any time, no matter how old you are.
