Do you regret not getting braces when you were younger? Don’t fret! Adult orthodontics is a reasonable option for you to consider.

Or, perhaps you’ve been holding off on orthodontic treatment. After all, you’ve managed with your teeth for a long time. You’re used to how they look and feel. Do you wonder if there’s any point in going through adult orthodontic treatment?

As a matter of fact, there are a number of compelling reasons to get work done on your smile. 

If you’re worried about facing your colleagues or constantly explaining your choices to people, don’t worry! Orthodontic treatments have come a long way. You have options that are quicker, more comfortable and discreet.

How Old Is Too Old?

The good news is that age doesn’t really matter anymore. 

There are a few factors that make you a suitable candidate for adult orthodontics. You’ll need to have strong teeth, sound bone density levels and healthy oral hygiene. 

Each person’s dental requirements are different so orthodontic treatment plans are always individualised. Your orthodontist will certainly consider how old you are, but age isn’t necessarily a disqualifier.

Adult Orthodontics – Worth It?

It’s true that getting braces when you’re younger is usually better, but, seeking orthodontic treatment when you’re older isn’t the worst thing in the world. When you’re young, your growing bones and teeth are easier to move. But, as an older patient, you’re likely to take more responsibility for your treatment.

Orthodontic treatments aren’t just for looks. There are structural benefits to your mouth in having straight teeth and an even jaw. Orthodontic treatment resolves problems involving the way you eat. Additionally, it protects the soft tissues in your mouth and the wear of your teeth over time.

Leaving misaligned teeth untreated may cause other issues. Some examples are tooth decay, gum disease, or chewing problems. 

Teeth can and should last a lifetime. When correctly aligned, teeth are easier to clean and, a more equal distribution of chewing forces improves your bite. Having orthodontic treatment is therefore beneficial to the lifespan of your teeth. 

In some cases, adult orthodontic treatment becomes part of a future plan of treatments. This means completing adult orthodontics before further corrective dentistry can be done. 

Here’s a quick summary of the benefits of orthodontal treatment:

• Improved bite
• A renewed sense of self-confidence, especially if you feel embarrassed about your teeth
• Better comfort when eating and chewing
• Less crowding makes teeth easier to clean, reducing cavities and unpleasant breath 
• It facilitates future dentistry 

Orthodontic Options 

Traditional treatments generally take two or three years. However, much quicker options are available. For example, Invisalign or Six Month Smiles. These correction methods use either aligners or clear braces.

If you can chew comfortably, but feel self-conscious about your smile, aligner braces might work for you. It’s a short-term option, usually for six months where the focus of the treatment is correcting the visible teeth. Aligners work best for mild crowding or gaps.

Clear braces are better if your teeth need more complex treatment. Instead of metal brackets, clear braces have brackets that match your teeth.

In short, aligners and clear braces have two great advantages. First, you don’t need to worry about the appearance of braces. Second, the length of time it will take to straighten your teeth is much less overwhelming. 

Your treatment options will depend on a variety of factors besides what’s going on in your mouth. When considering treatment options, your orthodontist will consider your lifestyle as well as the outcome of your treatment.

Having a consultation is an excellent way to determine what will work for you, and what you’ll manage. 

For example, removable aligners don’t work for everyone. This is because of the responsibility of wearing them every single day. Some people have trouble remembering to keep their aligners clean. Others forget to put them back after they’ve had something to eat.

During a consultation, your orthodontist will assess your needs and habits. Additionally, he or she will want to discuss what you hope to achieve from the process. And, will make every effort to recommend a way forward that best suits you.

Call Your Specialist

It’s always been the norm to have orthodontic treatment done during your teen years. It’s true that seeing to dental issues should, as far as possible, be done sooner rather than later. But, it’s never too late. 

Don’t put it off, get your teeth sorted out before greater issues develop. Your teeth can last a lifetime. Do what you can now to prevent problems down the road.  

If you’re wondering if adult orthodontics is suitable for you, give the team at Shine Dental a call. Your friendly Hampshire specialists will be happy to advise you. You can contact them here.