Have you looked at your smile and wondered if dental braces for adults are a possible or a good idea, you’re not alone. When most people think of braces or orthodontic correction they think of adolescence but the truth is, dental health can always be improved on and healthy teeth can be moved into better positions throughout adulthood using a variety of corrective options. Adults are using orthodontics in greater numbers than ever, whether it’s to improve their overall smile, fix bite issues or address teeth that have shifted over time there are solutions for adult braces and alignments for every stage of life.
Adult braces treatment does require a different approach, timelines and explanations than younger patients. Adults have variables such as bone maturity, previous dental health and dental work to consider when creating a successful and individualized treatment plan. At Miles of Smiles Orthodontics, we help adults explore the reasons for getting braces and whether braces and clear aligner options are the best fit in a comfortable, educational environment so they can make informed decisions about their smiles.
In This Post We Will Cover…
- How adult bone and biology affect treatment planning
- Why dental history matters before starting treatment
- Choosing discreet options that fit work and family life
- What adults should know about how long adult braces take
- How to keep teeth straight after adult braces.
Yes, Adults Can Get Braces at Any Age
A lot of adults secretly wonder, can adults get braces? Absolutely. More and more people are discovering the adult braces benefits, from oral health to enjoying their own smile more. Using state-of-the art imaging technology we are able to provide hardware, from standard wire braces to aligners such as Invisalign that help guide teeth into more functional positions by applying gentle, controlled pressure over time.
Where adult braces differ are adults have established oral health habits, previous dental work and bone maturity compared to adolescents. That’s why a competent and professional orthodontist will discuss your expectations, goals, daily oral habits and your complete dental history when creating an individualized plan.
Bone Maturity Can Affect How Adult Teeth Move
One of the main reasons orthodontists recommend braces or corrective devices in adolescence is that the jaw is still going through growth stages which can be used in conjunction with treatment to guide jaw development and teeth alignment. Adults have matured past that window but that doesn’t mean adult braces are less effective or even more difficult in most cases. While some cases may require more in-depth treatment many adults with braces or clear aligners can see significant improvement along time-lines only marginally longer than adolescent patients.
Oral Health History Shapes the Treatment Plan
Children get the benefit of a second chance, as their adult teeth come in they can learn better oral health habits and with proper intervention, some problems with alignment can be caught and corrected early with minimal treatment. Adults on the other hand, have an accumulated dental history that can include health struggles, injury or accident, dental implants, previous dental work, missing teeth or gum disease. All of these factors can impact the best course of treatment and expected outcomes.
Before beginning orthodontic care, your orthodontist will carefully evaluate the health of your teeth and gums to address treatment for gum disease, restorations, or missing teeth before treatment begins to create a stable foundation for moving teeth safely and predictably.
Adult Treatment Goals Often Include Appearance and Lifestyle
Adults approach orthodontic treatment for a variety of reasons, some have imperfections they’ve wanted to correct for a long time and have the opportunity to do so, others, ongoing dental health issues or previous dental work may have caused teeth to migrate slightly. Straighter teeth is not only a cosmetic choice, it can make ongoing oral health care easier, prolonging the health of your teeth.
Today’s orthodontic options offer more flexibility than ever. Traditional metal braces remain the most common choice, with ceramic braces offering the same overall value while blending in more naturally with your teeth. Depending on the level of correction needed, some adults may have the option of only using clear aligners, offering the most discreet appearance of all the adult braces options.
Do Adult Braces Take Longer?
Whether you’re an adult or an adolescent, there is no one set answer for how long it may take to complete treatment using braces or clear aligners. The length of treatment depends on several factors, including case complexity, your oral health, the type of appliance used, and how closely you follow your orthodontist’s recommendations.
Installed appliances such as braces require some daily maintenance and regular follow-up but because they are affixed to the teeth, they are able to maintain a consistent but gentle pressure to align teeth gradually. Clear aligners are more convenient in some ways, they’re also less visible, but successful treatment requires you to consistently wear your aligners and get them refitted on schedule. Following instructions throughout treatment helps achieve the best possible results, but every patient’s timeline is unique.
Are Adult Braces Really Successful?
Not only CAN adults get braces but adult braces treatment, provided you follow through with your scheduled appointments and care on schedule, is as effective as treatment received as an adolescent with some modifications for the adult jaw. Treatment length also depends on your smile goals, bite concerns, crowding or spacing issues and initial oral health.
After evaluating your teeth, bite, and overall oral health, an orthodontist can recommend the treatment option that best fits your needs and provide a realistic estimate of your expected treatment time.
Explore Adult Braces and Invisalign Options in Hemet CA
If you’re interested in changing your smile, learn the adult braces benefits, by scheduling a professional evaluation. Adult orthodontic treatment can improve appearance, bite function, oral health, and confidence with a plan designed specifically for you.
Miles of Smiles Orthodontics proudly serves adults throughout Hemet CA, including East Hemet, Valle Vista, and San Jacinto. Learn more about our services or contact us to schedule a consultation to learn whether braces or Invisalign is the best fit for your smile, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
