Braces are only for children and teenagers, right? Wrong! Adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment. Whether you want to improve your smile, be able to chew more effectively, or relieve your TMJ symptoms, adult orthodontics could be the solution. From braces to clear aligners and more, there are a variety of options for aligning your teeth and bite.
Learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics and why it’s never too late to transform your smile.
What is Orthodontics?
The goal of orthodontic treatment is to align the teeth and bite. Teeth that are out of alignment are more difficult to keep clean, don’t function as well, and are more at risk of damage and premature wear. It can also have a negative effect on your confidence when your smile is not what you desire.
Orthodontic treatment may consist of one or a combination of treatments, such as braces or Invisalign, that shift the teeth into proper alignment for optimal oral health and appearance. Once the teeth are properly aligned, retainers are used to maintain your results.
Average Age for Orthodontic Treatment
While the average age for orthodontic treatment is between the ages of 10 and 14, more adults are seeking treatment than ever before. According to current statistics, 1 in 5 orthodontic patients are adults over the age of 18. This has changed significantly over the past few decades, especially due to the availability of Invisalign and other clear aligner treatments.
Treatment Options for Adults
- Metal braces. Traditional metal braces consist of brackets that attach to each tooth and an archwire that connects them. Braces exert force on the teeth to shift them into the desired position in your jaw. Elastics (rubber bands) may be used with braces to provide additional adjustments and bite alignment.
- Clear braces. Clear brackets are made of ceramic that blends in with your teeth for a more subtle appearance. The archwire is still made of metal, but the overall appearance is less obvious. Clear braces work just like metal braces.
- Invisalign. Invisalign treatment consists of a series of clear plastic aligners that you wear over your teeth for 1-2 weeks at a time. Each aligner gently shifts your teeth, making gradual adjustments over time until your teeth are in the desired position.
- Surgical orthodontics. In some cases traditional orthodontic treatments alone are not effective. Corrective jaw surgery may be necessary to make skeletal adjustments in order for the teeth to properly align.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
- Improved oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to keep clean and are less likely to become damaged due to uneven wear.
- Increased confidence. Orthodontic treatment can improve your confidence as your smile is transformed.
- Improved chewing capabilities. Once your teeth are in the correct position you can chew more effectively.
- Relief of TMJ symptoms. If you experience jaw pain or limited jaw movement, orthodontic treatment can often provide relief by treating the source of the problem.
- Reduced snoring or sleep apnea symptoms. Adjustments to your teeth and the shape of your jaw from orthodontic treatment can reduce snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
Does dental insurance cover adult orthodontics?
Some dental insurance plans may include coverage for adult orthodontics. For more details about your plan and coverage, contact your insurance provider or refer to your benefits guide.
How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies based on a variety of factors such as the extent of the necessary corrections and the type of treatment you choose. Orthodontic treatment often takes longer for adults than it does for children and teenagers because the teeth are more settled in the jaw.
Schedule a Consultation
If you want to learn more about adult orthodontic treatment, call Dr. Garrick F. Wong DMD at 203-625-9888 or contact us today to schedule an appointment. It’s never too late to transform your smile!