Adult braces may not seem like a common choice. Kids and teens benefit from braces by getting them early due to their developmental changes. However, adult braces continue to surge in popularity and are now worn by over 1 million people, according to a 2014 study conducted by the American Association of Orthodontics.
Why do more adults accept braces as a viable treatment for their oral issues? Not only do many adults need to correct oral problems for their health or appearance, but the payment and treatment options for adult braces have continued to increase in recent years. Read on to learn more about adult braces as well as the options and benefits you should take into consideration.
Want to find out if you need braces? Visit Reese Orthodontics in Charleston, SC for leading orthodontic care.
Options for Adult Braces
Braces are no longer the cumbersome metal appliances they used to be. The wired brackets of modern metal braces are far less obstructive, leading to less gum and lip irritation and easier adjustments. However, in addition to conventional braces being more comfortable, adults now have several options for braces. Depending on their needs, these could offer more effective treatments:
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces differ in material from metal braces but retain the same approximate shape and size. They’re made from clear ceramic brackets so that they’re less visually obvious. This makes them ideal for adults in customer service or management positions or those self-conscious about the appearance of metal braces.
They move teeth as effectively as metal braces. However, they are more expensive and the clear ceramic material is more likely to stain.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are attached to the backside of your teeth, making them completely “invisible” to others. This type of braces cannot fix every problem that conventional braces can, so it’s important to discuss your needs and options with your orthodontist. They are more expensive than conventional metal braces as well.
Invisalign
Invisalign is the name for clear plastic retainers that can be worn after braces or instead of them if the required treatments are subtle enough. The main benefits of Invisalign are that patients can take them out to eat and easily keep them clean. They are more expensive than metal braces and can’t fix many bite issues that must be addressed by wired braces. However, they’re the most comfortable option.
Benefits of Adult Braces
Adult braces, no matter which option you choose, come with many of the same benefits as young adult braces. This includes straighter teeth, which can prevent discomfort caused by chewing and swallowing. Straighter teeth are also easier to keep healthy and clean.
As we age, our jaws naturally “soften.” This causes teeth to shift and become crowded, leading to discomfort. Braces can benefit patients over the age of 50 by alleviating bite, speech, and eating issues.
Beyond the health benefits, braces are beneficial purely as an aesthetic change. People with straight teeth feel more confident and healthier. Those who work in professional settings can also give better first impressions with a straighter smile.
Since braces have become streamlined through advances in oral technology, they are also no longer as expensive as they used to be. Not only can treatment cost as little as $5,000 in total, but dental insurance plans front a lot of the cost. Figuring out an affordable payment plan has never been easier.
Additional Considerations
Even adults have to brush differently during their braces treatment. You want to keep your mouth open while brushing, which may seem counterintuitive at first. This gives you the room to angle your brush to remove food and debris from all areas of your braces.
Remember that braces don’t last forever. The needs of your treatment and the type of braces you choose change how long you must wear them. You’ll need adjustments every few weeks and have to wear a retainer afterward. However, most braces treatments end in 18 to 26 months for the average adult. Talk with your orthodontist about how to shorten this time or how to save money on your plan.
Choose Reese Orthodontics
We hope you enjoyed learning more about adult braces as well as the options and benefits you should take into consideration. However, if you’re an adult who is considering braces, you need professional advice on your treatment and payment options.
For orthodontic care in Charleston, SC, Reese Orthodontics offers the latest technology and treatment plans. Our advanced and comfortable orthodontic options can be customized to suit your needs. A consultation with Reese Orthodontics includes scans, a comprehensive exam, and a conversation with the orthodontist to discover which treatments are right for you.
Schedule an appointment with us today to stay ahead of your oral health and receive the best possible care in your area.