Whilst many orthodontic professionals advocate for early intervention when addressing orthodontic issues, it doesn’t mean that there’s no hope for adults! On the contrary, age really is no bar when it comes to orthodontic treatment, and the additional discipline, commitment, and life experience adults have will help them get their desired outcome.
Why Adults Seek Orthodontic Treatment
Adults can find themselves seeking orthodontic treatment for a number of different reasons. They may want to address issues such as crooked teeth or a misaligned bite so that they can feel more confident with their smile and appearance. In other cases, it may be that addressing these issues will make it easier to keep their mouth clean and healthy and avoid other problems developing over time.
Some people become more conscious of these issues during adulthood, others may simply have been unable to access the treatment when they were younger. Orthodontic treatment options have also expanded significantly, meaning there are now more solutions, such as clear aligners, that can work for those who were unwilling or unable to use traditional braces.
The Advantages of Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Although earlier treatment is usually recommended, adult patients can still get a lot out of their orthodontic treatment. They’ve had longer to develop good dental hygiene habits and are likely to have fewer issues with compliance. This means the risk of other issues developing during treatment may be lower, and they are more likely to get as much out of their treatment as possible.
Orthodontic treatment in adulthood of course also brings all of the same general benefits as orthodontic treatment at an earlier age. This can include a better smile, improved confidence, an easier time keeping their teeth clean, and a reduced risk of developing additional complications as a result of a malocclusion.
The Drawbacks of Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Unfortunately, by adulthood, the teeth are more set in their positions. This means that they will typically take a while longer to move to the desired positions, sometimes extending the necessary treatment time. It’s still very possible to achieve amazing results, however, and treatment now feels less burdensome due to the more discreet and convenient options that are now available.
Understanding Your Treatment Options
Thanks to recent developments in orthodontic technology, there are now more treatment options available than ever. Although the best way to find the right one for you is by consulting with an experienced orthodontist, we’ll briefly examine them and their relative advantages.
Traditional Braces
These are made of metal and are attached to the front of the teeth. They’re a relatively inexpensive treatment option and may be recommended when addressing more complex orthodontic issues. However, they are the most noticeable option and perhaps the most associated with younger patients, leading to concerns about being perceived less seriously in the workplace, for example.
Lingual Braces
These are similar to traditional metal braces but attach to the back of the teeth. This makes them much more discreet and keeps them out of sight, avoiding some of the concerns that come with other braces.
Clear Plastic Aligners
An incredibly popular option with adult orthodontic patients, clear plastic aligners provide a more discreet and convenient alternative to braces. Although they have to be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours per day, they are removed when eating and brushing teeth, making them a lot more convenient. They’re another discreet option, with their clear plastic construction making them relatively unnoticeable.
Taking The Next Step
If you’re ready to start on the path to your perfect smile, regardless of your age, the next step is to make an appointment with an orthodontist. Contact Dream Orthodontics in South Surrey today for a free consultation.