Braces are most often associated with teenagers, so many adults assume that they aren’t for them. However, you’re never too old to get the smile you’ve always wanted!
It’s also widely acknowledged that misaligned teeth are just a cosmetic problem, but that is also untrue. If your teeth aren’t aligned properly, the result could be uneven wear and difficulty brushing.
Treatments like braces and Invisalign can give you a perfectly aligned bite. Using constant pressure, these devices slowly push your teeth into their desired placement.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are mounted on your teeth with a special cement. That cement holds metal brackets onto your teeth, and the brackets hold a wire with the help of small rubber bands. Every month or so, your orthodontist will change the wire.
Though the idea of wearing a mouth full of metal is off-putting to many, it really is no big deal, and more common than you think! In fact, between 2012 and 2014, there was a 16% increase in the number of patients older than 40 being treated with braces.
Most braces treatments take between 18 months and 3 years. It’s a small price to pay for a lifetime of straight teeth!
Invisalign
Invisalign is a newer treatment for adults and mature teenagers. Invisalign treatments involve wearing clear aligners for 22 hours every day. Every 4-6 weeks, you will get a new aligner, continuing this process until your teeth gradually inch toward their desired placements.
Patients who use Invisalign treatment enjoy the fact that these are invisible and can be removed for brushing and eating.
Treatment times vary, but they usually take about 12 months.
If you’re ready to try Invisalign or braces, contact an orthodontist to set up a consultation. To learn more about the orthodontic services we offer, click here.