What You Should Know About Getting Braces as an Adult

While straight teeth can help you feel more confident in your appearance, a well-aligned smile is important for more than just dental aesthetics. Having straight teeth can also make it easier to take care of your oral health and help you avoid dental issues in the future.

Although many teens wear braces to address dental misalignment, getting braces as an adult can be just as effective as wearing them earlier in life. It’s normal to have reservations about orthodontic treatment at any age; however, there are many reasons to consider braces to correct misaligned teeth. Modern dentistry offers a variety of options for patients looking to straighten their teeth, and after researching them, you might find that the potential benefits outweigh your doubts.

Read on for a few essential tips about getting braces as an adult:

1. There Are Multiple Options

If you are considering braces as an adult, you have multiple options. You can opt for traditional metal braces, or you might select porcelain braces that function like metal braces but are much sheerer.

If you’re worried about the visibility of your braces, you can also opt for clear aligners like Invisalign. They are nearly invisible and can be removed while you eat, meaning you don’t have to worry about missing out on your favorite meals.

2. Braces Can Help You Improve Oral Hygiene

When you have misaligned teeth, it can be easy to focus on how they impact your appearance. However, misaligned teeth can also make it difficult to eat or speak properly. Teeth that are overlapping or tightly packed also make it easier to get food particles stuck between your teeth, placing you at higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Although it may take time to adjust to cleaning your teeth with braces, they can assist you in maintaining healthy teeth for the long haul. After orthodontic treatment, your newly straightened teeth will be easier to brush and floss, which helps to avoid tartar and plaque buildup.

3. Improved Convenience

Getting braces may be more convenient than you think! Most dental and orthodontic offices are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and treatments tailored to your unique needs. Speak to your doctor about potential strategies to make your orthodontic treatment as efficient and effective as possible. For example, you may be able to schedule virtual appointments for quick check-ups or have your clear aligners mailed to your home to limit trips to the dental office.

4. You Won’t Wear Braces Forever

If you’re considering braces, you might be concerned that you’ll have to wear them for a long time. However, this often isn’t the case. Improvements to orthodontic techniques and technologies consistently support improved results and faster treatment times. In general, most adult patients wear braces for an average of 14 to 26 months.

5. Enhanced Confidence

Confidence matters a lot regardless of your age. Straighter teeth can help you look forward to showing off your smile in social situations, helping you feel more comfortable talking, smiling, and laughing. After braces, you might also be more eager to take pictures, enjoying every opportunity to flash your smile with confidence.

Consider Braces at Any Age

Don’t let fears or misconceptions stand in the way of achieving a smile you love. If you didn’t have braces as a teenager, or your teeth have shifted after an initial round of orthodontic treatment, it’s not too late to get the straight teeth of your dreams. If you’re seeking solutions to misaligned teeth, contact your dentist today to see if braces are an ideal option for you.