Braces for Adults
Braces for adults? Is it good option?  That's the frequently question asked us. Many adults believe that braces are only for children and teenagers; however, this is not the case! For some adults, orthodontic treatment wasn’t an option when growing up, but many adults these days are choosing to fix issues they have with their teeth. It’s never too late to perfect your smile, and the number of adults getting orthodontic work done is increasing each day!
These days, adults make up almost half of all orthodontic patients.
Braces have come a long way, and now there are more options for everyone to choose from. There are many different options when it comes to braces for adults these days. Adults can choose the traditional ceramic braces, or there is always Invisalign, for less serious cases. You may be able to afford braces more now than ever before, or you may simply be more conscious of your teeth, or maybe problems have just started to occur now.
Whatever your reason is, it is never too late to come to see Dr. Nima Mir and his team. Why not get the smile you have always dreamed of today?
Braces for Adults: More Than Just a Trend
As more adults discover the benefits of orthodontic treatment, the idea that braces are only for children and teenagers is fading. Many adults, who missed out on orthodontic treatment as teens, are now seeking options to fix issues with their teeth. With advancements in dental technology, it has never been easier for adults to get the smile they’ve always wanted.
In fact, adults now make up nearly half of all orthodontic patients! Whether it's for cosmetic reasons, oral health concerns, or both, braces for adults are becoming a popular choice.
Read More: Getting Braces as an Adult
Who Are the Best Candidate?
Braces are ideal for adults who are unhappy with their tooth alignment. No matter how severe the misalignment is, adult braces can almost fix any case of tooth imperfection. Moreover, adult braces can even correct malocclusion (jaw misalignment). Malocclusion can be in different forms: overbite, underbite, or crossbite, and adult braces can be the best way to achieve jaw alignment.
Read More: Orthodontics for Kids
Are Braces for Adults Worth it?
Most adults who choose braces to straighten their teeth out and fix their malocclusion are incredibly satisfied with the result. It leads to boosting their confidence, better relationships, more success in their career, and an overall happier lifestyle.
However, adult braces are entirely up to individuals because certain tooth misalignments do not cause an oral health concern. In these cases, orthodontics is only important from an aesthetic point of view.
Different Types of Treatment Options for Adults
- Aligners
- Conventional fixed braces
- Invisible braces
- Maxillofacial surgery
- Retainer
- Additional appliances
Read More: Different Types of Invisalign
Aligners
Aligners are clear trays that should remain in the mouth for 20 to 22 hours per day, and they are switched out every two weeks to make room for tooth movement. You can remove them only for meals and clean your teeth.
Invisalign is the most common brand for aligners. They are less visible (but not completely invisible) and, unlike other types of braces, don’t affect how you brush and floss your teeth.
Remember, when you use aligners, you need to switch out the trays on schedule. The shifting of this obligation can sometimes result in a longer course of treatment than conventional options.
Conventional Fixed Braces
Braces used to be made up of a metal band wrapped around every or nearly every tooth. Today, modern braces just have one bracket bonded to the front of the tooth to hold the wires in place. The wires will be anchored by a few bands in the back.
Clear or tooth-colored ceramic is the second option for conventional braces.
The biggest benefit of conventional braces is that, in most cases, the treatment time is shorter, but these devices are noticeable even if you use the ceramic option.
Read More: Different Styles of Braces
Self-ligating braces
Self-ligating braces have a small metal clip on the bracket that lets wires pass through. Therefore, you do not need an elastic band to move your teeth.
Lingual braces
Like conventional braces, lingual braces have brackets that are bonded to the back sides of the teeth. Lingual braces are invisible and work as quickly as conventional braces, but they are costlier.
Regardless of the type of device you used, your orthodontist may require you to wear a retainer after treatment is completed.
Read More: Dental Braces for Adults
Maxillofacial surgery
A specific type of dentistry known as maxillofacial surgery involves an operation to treat certain diseases, injuries, and birth defects of the face, jaw, or mouth.
You need maxillofacial surgery if you have a problem with:
- Your teeth
- Your jaw’s bones and tissue in your lower face (maxillofacial area)
- Your month’s roof (palate)
Maxillofacial surgery will be done to improve jaw function and relieve the pain.
Your orthodontist may advise you to do maxillofacial surgery if you have some kind of dental problem:
- Chronic dental pain
- Oral diseases
- Extract or remove impacted teeth
- Preparing for dental implants and prostheses (like dentures)
- Inserting dental implants
Read More: Crooked Canine Teeth
Braces for Specific Adult Groups
Orthodontic care for adults is not one-size-fits-all. There are specific groups of adults who might require tailored care or face unique challenges:
- Braces for Adults with Special Health Conditions: If you have health concerns such as diabetes, osteoporosis, or autoimmune disorders, it's essential to consult an orthodontist for adults who can provide specialized care. These conditions may affect bone density and the movement of your teeth.
- Braces for Seniors: Age isn't a barrier to straightening your teeth! Seniors are increasingly seeking braces for adults as a solution for improving their oral health and overall appearance. Bone density and pre-existing dental work may require a more cautious approach, but with the right treatment plan, great results can be achieved.
Read More: How Much Are Braces Cost in Canada?
Cost and Financing Options
One of the most common concerns when considering adult braces is the cost. The price can vary depending on the type of braces, the severity of the case, and the duration of treatment. Generally, the cost of braces for adults in areas such as Thornhill or North York ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, though it may be higher for certain treatments such as invisible braces York.
- Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans offer coverage for orthodontic treatment for adults, although the amount of coverage varies. It's a good idea to check with your provider beforehand.
- Financing Plans: To make braces more affordable, most orthodontists, like Mir,offer flexible payment plans. These plans can help you pay off the treatment in smaller, manageable installments. This option at York Orthodontics is available and is totally interest-free.
- If you're considering clear aligners for adults Yorkor invisible braces York, these options tend to be slightly more expensive due to their advanced technology, but many adults find them worth the investment.
Read More: Does CDCP Cover Braces?
Retainers and Aftercare: A More Detailed Focus
Once your braces are removed, the work doesn't end there. Retainers play a critical role in maintaining the results of your treatment. Wearing a retainer ensures that your teeth stay in their new, aligned positions and prevents them from shifting back to their original misaligned state.
Types of Retainers
There are two main types of retainers:
- Fixed Retainers: A thin wire is bonded to the back of your teeth to keep them in place.
- Removable Retainers: A custom-made plastic device that you can take out to clean and wear during sleep.
Failure to wear a retainer as instructed can lead to regression, making follow-up visits and diligent aftercare essential.
Read More: Orthodontics for Teenagers
Post-Treatment Follow-Up and Long-Term Results
After the completion of your orthodontic treatment for adults, follow-up visits are essential. These visits allow your orthodontist to ensure that your teeth remain in their new position and to check for any shifting. Some patients may need a quick adjustment or reinforcement of the retainer routine.
Lifestyle Tips for Braces Wearers
Living with braces as an adult doesn't mean you have to completely alter your lifestyle, but a few tips can make the process easier:
- Dietary Changes: For the first few weeks, stick to soft foods, and avoid sticky or hard foods that can damage the braces.
- Oral Hygiene: Braces can make brushing and flossing more challenging, so using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a special floss threader for braces is a must.
- Managing Discomfort: When you first get your braces, or after adjustments, you may experience discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help alleviate pain caused by irritation.
Read More:Invisalign Consultation
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Many adults are surprised by the emotional and psychological benefits of getting adult braces. Not only do they improve the appearance of your smile, but they can also enhance your confidence and self-esteem. Having straight teeth can lead to more positive interactions in both personal and professional settings, ultimately contributing to a happier and more fulfilled life.
Braces for adults aren’t just about improving your smile—they can significantly boost your overall well-being.
What Type of Braces Are Best for Adults?
When considering braces for adults, it’s important to choose the option that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget. Here are the most common types of orthodontic options available:
- Conventional Braces: Traditional metal braces are still a reliable and effective choice for adults. If you’re looking for a more discreet option, clear ceramic bracesare a great alternative. While more noticeable than clear aligners, they offer a quicker treatment time in most cases.
- Clear Aligners: If you prefer something less visible, clear aligners for adults Yorkor ceramic braces may be the perfect fit. Invisalign, the most well-known brand, is an option for adults with less severe misalignments. These aligners are removable, making it easier to eat and maintain your oral hygiene.
- Invisible Braces York: For the most discreet option, invisible braces York(such as lingual braces) are placed on the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible to others. However, they tend to be more expensive than traditional braces.
- Self-Ligating Braces: These use a metal clip to hold the wire in place, reducing the need for elastic bands and potentially shortening treatment time.
Read More: Braces on Back of the Teeth
Organizing Your Treatment
The duration of your orthodontic treatment largely depends on the type of appliance used and the severity of the dental issues being addressed. Typically, treatment for adults may range from 18 to 22 months, though this timeline can vary. For aligner treatments, such as Invisalign, the overall duration depends on the consistency with which the aligners are worn. Fortunately, adults are often highly motivated to follow treatment instructions diligently, which can lead to more successful outcomes.
It’s important to note that patients generally use only one type of device throughout the course of treatment. For example, an adult may initially start with clear aligners for a few months before transitioning to conventional braces if needed.
Before beginning orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough medical evaluation, including a detailed medical history. Because orthodontic treatment involves the movement of teeth through living bone, the orthodontist needs to be aware of any medications you may be taking or any conditions that could affect bone health. For example, certain medications or conditions, such as osteoporosis, can influence the way your bones respond to orthodontic forces.
Women, in particular, should be aware of bone density issues, as they are more likely than men to experience low bone density. This factor can impact the efficacy of orthodontic treatment and may require additional consideration or specialized care.
Takeaway
Adult braces are increasingly popular, and this trend shows no sign of slowing down. Thanks to advancements in orthodontic technology, there are now more options than ever to suit various lifestyles, with efficient strategies that help complete treatment faster and more effectively.
If you have any questions or concerns about adult braces, don’t hesitate to reach out to York Orthodontics. We understand the unique challenges you may face and are committed to providing tailored solutions to meet your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While the cost of braces for adults can be higher due to the complexity of the treatment and the types of options chosen (like clear aligners for adults York or invisible braces York), many orthodontists offer flexible payment plans to make them affordable.
Yes! Age is not a barrier to orthodontic treatment. Many adults in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are seeking adult braces for both cosmetic and health reasons.
For adults with a busy lifestyle, clear aligners for adults York and invisible braces York are often the most convenient options. These options allow you to straighten your teeth without significant disruption to your daily life.
The length of treatment depends on the severity of your misalignment. For most adults, it can take anywhere from 18 to 24 months with conventional braces, but treatments like clear aligners for adults York may take longer depending on how consistently you wear them.
Once your braces are removed, it’s important to follow your orthodontist’s aftercare instructions and wear your retainer as needed. Proper aftercare ensures that your teeth stay in their new position and minimizes the risk of relapse.