It’s never too late in life to get the smile you want! In fact, adults seeking orthodontic treatment is a fast-growing group of dental patients.
There is a common misconception that a misaligned bite is only a cosmetic issue, but this isn’t the case. A misaligned smile can result in your teeth wearing unevenly and collecting plaque in odd places that are difficult to clean.
Braces and Invisalign work to straighten your teeth by applying pressure over a period of time that gradually positions your teeth to their desired placement.
Metal Braces, the Traditional Treatment for Severe Cases
These are traditional braces that consist of a bracket mounted onto your teeth with a special cement. Your orthodontist will then attach a wire to the front of the brackets, holding it in place with rubber bands.
While some adults (and children!) recoil at the idea of walking around with a mouth full of metal, it is becoming more common. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, between 2012 and 2014, the number of patients over 50 being treated with braces increased by 16%.
The average braces treatment lasts 18 months- 3 years, and for many, trading in a few years of having braces seems like a small price to pay for a lifetime of straight teeth.
Traditional braces are more effective for patients who have complex cases of misalignment.
Invisalign, an Invisible Treatment for Adults and Mature Teens
Invisalign invisible aligners are a newer way to straighten teeth. These consist of a series of invisible trays that you wear on your teeth for most of the day.
This treatment has the benefit of being inconspicuous and removable. Unlike braces, which require avoiding certain foods and adjusting brushing and flossing techniques, Invisalign aligners can simply be removed for brushing and eating.
This is a preferred option among adults, since they’re invisible on your teeth, but aligners aren’t usually recommended for children. Since you can take the aligners out of your mouth, it requires self-discipline to keep them in. Not to mention, you could easily throw out your aligners by mistake! Despite these factors, mature teenagers can often find success with Invisalign treatment.
The average Invisalign treatment takes 12 months.
If you think Invisalign or braces are a good fit for you, or if you need help deciding which is the right choice, contact your dentist to set up a consultation. Click here to learn more about the orthodontic services we offer at Central Park Modern Dentistry.