Maybe you never had braces as a child, or your teeth have relapsed since your orthodontic work years ago. Either way – getting braces as an adult is a popular choice to straighten teeth cosmetically or solve underlying bite concerns.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
Now that you’re an adult, you’re more aware of and better able to care for your oral health. Having straight teeth not only helps create an aesthetically pleasing smile, but it can help prevent the onset of other related problems. The more aligned your teeth are, the better you are to clean your teeth to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Having a better-aligned smile can even ease chewing.
As an older adult, you can not only afford treatment by knowing your budgeting needs, but you may also have insurance covering orthodontic treatment.
How is Getting Braces as an Adult Different?
As an adult, your bones are no longer growing. The maturity and density of the bone directly affect how treatment might progress. The more mature the bone is within your mouth, the more time it might take to shift those teeth around! This is particularly true of highly crooked teeth.
How is Getting Braces as an Adult Similar to Kids?
Nonetheless, your adult teeth can be moved. With the pressure applied via braces, teeth naturally move in response. The process is the same as if you were a child.
Types of Adult Braces
Metal Braces
Regarding dental care, metal braces are among the most popular options. They’re easy to use and provide precise, uniform results. In addition, metal braces are an extremely durable option you can pick. Made of steel or titanium, these are strong enough to last you through your treatment.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces act the same as metal braces, with a few different pros. The brackets that hold the wire can be clear or tooth-colored, camouflaging your braces into your teeth. This option is also better suited for those who experience tremendous irritation with metal braces.
LightForce Braces
LightForce braces are a fine ceramic that can be 3D-printed into brackets to custom fit your teeth and your bite. The braces use an elastic strip, which is attached to your teeth. This elastic strip gently pulls your teeth in the direction you want them to move without the pressures you felt with traditional braces. The flexible nature of the LightForce braces allows you to eat, drink, and chew normally while your braces are being worn.
Damon Braces
Damon braces can be metal or ceramic, but what makes them stand apart is their patented bracket slide mechanism. As a result, you can better clean your teeth without the traditional elastics holding the wire. The lack of elastic bands also decreases friction and treatment time. They are often used with a crown or bridge restoration.