The Best Reasons to Get Braces as an Adult
We all know how common braces are in children and teens, but did you know that they’re great for adults too? Having braces as an adult is a great way to improve your dental health and give you the smile of your dreams. It can also help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Even better, get fast braces by choosing custom options like LightForce or InBrace. So what are you waiting for? Get braces today!
Top Reasons For Adult Braces
One of the main reasons adults choose to get braces is to fix an alignment issue. Adult teeth can shift or turn after time, leaving crooked teeth and jaw misalignment. Braces can correct this problem and help your teeth stay in place. Another good reason is to fix any gaps between your teeth caused by age. As you age, the muscles around your mouth weaken, leading to spaces between your teeth because there isn’t enough pressure to push them together anymore. An orthodontist will know how to close these gaps with braces and prevent shifting teeth even more. Finally, if you have a hereditary condition like crooked or overlapping teeth, braces can provide a solution.
How much do adult braces cost?
Have you been considering getting braces? The cost of adult braces generally ranges between $4,000 and $6,000. If you’re looking for the cost of Invisalign, that starts at $2,500. Of course, the exact cost will depend on various factors, including the treatment length, the complexity of your alignment concerns, and the type of braces you select.
Are Adult Braces Right For You?
Do I Need Braces?
Determining if you need adult braces typically involves a combination of assessment and consultation with an orthodontist. Here are some signs that it’s time to book a consultation with your Miami orthodontist about adult braces:
- Crooked, Crowded, or Misaligned Teeth – One of the more obvious reasons you may need braces as an adult. If you have teeth that are visibly crooked, overlapping, or misaligned, braces can help correct these issues.
- Overbite or Underbite – An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively, while an underbite is when the lower front teeth are positioned in front of the upper front teeth. Both conditions can be improved with braces.
- Crossbite – A crossbite occurs when some of your upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth when you bite down. This can cause problems with your bite and requires braces to resolve.
- Gaps Between Teeth – If you have noticeable gaps or spaces between your teeth, braces can be a great solution for closing the gaps and improving your smile’s appearance.
- Jaw Problems – Orthodontic issues can also affect your jaw alignment, leading to conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Braces can be part of the treatment plan to address these issues.
- Aesthetic Concerns – Even if you don’t have significant functional issues, you may choose to get braces for cosmetic reasons to improve the appearance of your smile.
If you have any of these issues, you’ll want to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist to determine if adult braces can help. We will conduct a thorough exam and evaluation and provide you with a personalized treatment plan and discuss whether braces are necessary and what type of braces would be best for your specific needs.
Types of Adult Braces
Types of Adult Braces
There are several types of braces that adults can consider based on their specific orthodontic needs and personal preferences. Here’s a list of some common types of adult braces:
- Traditional Metal Braces – The most recognizable type of braces, consisting of metal brackets attached to each tooth with wires running through them. While they are visible, modern versions are smaller and more comfortable than in the past.
- Ceramic Braces – Similar in design to traditional metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets and wires, making them less conspicuous. They are a popular choice among adults who want a more discreet treatment option.
- Lingual Braces or Inbrace- Attached behind the teeth (lingual side), making them virtually invisible from the front. They provide effective treatment with customized wires and a high level of technology.
- Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign) – A series of custom-made, removable plastic trays that gradually move the teeth into the desired position. They are nearly invisible and offer the advantage of being removable for eating and oral hygiene.
- Self-Ligating Braces – With brackets that don’t require elastic bands or metal ties to hold the wires in place, self-ligating braces can potentially reduce friction and discomfort and may require fewer adjustment appointments.
- LightForce – Customized 3D Printed brackets may require less overall treatment time due to the precision in brace placement.
- Clear Braces with Tooth-Colored Wires: These braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets with tooth-colored wires, combining some of the aesthetic advantages of ceramic braces with the functionality of traditional braces.
The choice of braces depends on various factors, including the severity of your orthodontic issues, your budget, your personal preferences for appearance, how much time and effort you want to put in to taking care of your braces, and your individual anatomy.
Benefits of Adult Braces
Adult braces can offer numerous benefits, both in terms of oral health and aesthetics. From cosmetic enhancements to corrected alignment, braces can help adults feel more confident and comfortable, and be proactive in their ongoing oral health.
Adult Braces Aren’t Just Cosmetic
Of course getting Invisalign or traditional braces as an adult will help you achieve a stunning smile that can help take years off your appearance. However, there are numerous advantages of adult orthodontic treatment that extend beyond cosmetic improvements. Having properly aligned teeth facilitates easier oral hygiene, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Given that gum disease is associated with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even premature labor in women, there exists a clear link between oral health and overall well-being.
Additionally, braces can offer a variety of additional benefits for adults, including:
- Improving the functionality of your teeth and jaws, allowing for better breathing, speech, and chewing.
- Minimizing abnormal wear on teeth.
- Decreasing the vulnerability of protruding teeth to injuries.
- Balancing bite forces, which can alleviate headaches and alleviate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
- Creating space for dental implants in cases of missing teeth.
- Boosting self-esteem and confidence!
Adult orthodontic treatment can not only enhance your appearance, but also significantly contribute to your overall oral health and quality of life.
Adult Braces FAQ
Do Braces Hurt More For Adults?
The level of discomfort or pain experienced with braces can vary from person to person, regardless of age. While there is no definitive rule that braces are more painful for adults than children, there are factors that can influence the perception of pain or discomfort including individual sensitivity, existing orthodontic and dental issues, and pain perception. We always aim to minimize patient discomfort as much as possible and provide guidance on how to manage it. In many cases, any discomfort associated with braces is temporary and manageable, and the long-term benefits of orthodontic treatment often outweigh the temporary discomfort.
How Long Do Adults Have To Wear Braces?
The duration of orthodontic treatment with braces for adults can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the orthodontic issues being addressed, the type of braces used, and the individual’s response to treatment. On average, adult orthodontic treatment with braces typically lasts from 18 months to 3 years. However, some cases may be shorter or longer.
Do Braces Take Longer For Adults?
In many cases, adults may need to wear braces for about the same duration as children and adolescents. The length of time required for orthodontic treatment with braces depends primarily on the complexity of the orthodontic issues being addressed, not necessarily on the age of the patient.
Adult Braces Orthodontist Near You
At Specialty Smiles, we strive to provide our patients with a fun, efficient, and friendly atmosphere for their orthodontic care in the Miami area. Our doctors have the most current knowledge of technology for adult braces, giving them the ability to give their patients the best possible care with the best possible results. Our staff is familiar with the latest trends and works diligently to create a comfortable environment for our patients of all ages.
