No matter the age, you’re always eligible for orthodontic care. Whether you’ve had oral procedures done as a kid, or it’s your first time, there are a wide range of orthodontics for adults you can consider.
Why would some adults need orthodontic treatment?
There are a variety of reasons to consider orthodontic treatment for adults. As we age, our teeth naturally shift, wear down, or develop other issues. Those who haven’t consistently worn retainers each day after orthodontics when they were younger, or those who never had treatment, may find that their teeth have moved and need realignment. From crooked teeth and bite issues to prolonged habits that have caused damage, many adults come to the realisation that they still want orthodontic care.
What issues can adult orthodontics fix?
Depending on your situation, orthodontic treatments can address a range of dental issues, including:
- Crooked or misplaced teeth: Teeth that are misaligned or overlap, which can affect both appearance and function.
- Underbite: When the lower teeth are too far forward beyond the upper teeth.
- Overbite: When the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth.
- Deep bite: When the upper teeth cover most or all of the lower teeth.
- Jaw asymmetry: When the upper and lower jaws are not in alignment, leading to problems with chewing, speech, and facial appearance.
- Spacing or realignment issues: Gaps between teeth or crowded teeth that may make brushing and flossing more difficult, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Orthodontics can improve both the function and aesthetic appearance of the teeth and jaws, make it easier to brush and floss your teeth, leading to better overall oral health.
What types of orthodontics are available?
Many adults may shy away from wearing traditional metal braces because of how noticeable they are, but other discreet options are now available with the latest technology. Options such as clear aligners like Invisalign, ceramic braces, or lingual braces are great places to start. The prices for each of these treatments vary:
- Invisalign: Starting at $3,500
- Clear Ceramic Braces: Starting at $4,000
- Lingual Braces: Starting at $6,000
But let’s discuss what each of them can offer to you!
Invisalign
In the past couple of decades, clear aligners such as Invisalign have become increasingly popular for people of all ages. They’re clear, comfortable, and easy to maintain, so more and more people are beginning to opt for them.
Invisalign is made from a custom-moulded plastic that sits on your teeth. Every couple of weeks, you replace your aligners with a new set to keep your teeth under pressure and gradually shift them. Once worn for a decent amount of time, a patient can see quite the difference. The time required for treatment varies based on the extent of tooth movement the patient desires.
What’s great about Invisalign is that it’s in your control. You can take the trays in and out as you please to eat and drink. However, to see results, you do need to wear them for at least 22 hours a day, only taking them out when you are eating or brushing your teeth.
Patients love Invisalign because they can continue to eat all the foods they enjoy while also maintaining their lifestyle with little interruption. If you have enough discipline to follow directions on how to care and wear them, they’re a perfect option that offers unbeatable results.
Clear ceramic braces
Why get chunky, metal braces when you can get clear ceramic ones? Nowadays, there are tooth-coloured, clear braces available that many adults prefer as they’re not nearly as noticeable. In a short period, these braces can have greater control over the movement of each tooth and yield incredible results.
Since there’s no risk of forgetting to wear them or losing them, this makes them more reliable and able to achieve results more efficiently. Their sleek, ceramic design blends seamlessly with your teeth, making them comfortable and easy to wear without drawing attention to your smile, which many adults love.
Lingual braces
Now what if you want to get braces, but you want minimal care and consistent support? Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces but instead of being on the front side of your teeth, the metal plates bond to the back side, similar to a built-in retainer. This way nobody will see them except for your orthodontist.
While these braces are a bit more expensive and take longer to fit, they are customised for precision and very effective when it comes to complex cases. Since the braces are attached to the back, there’s no chance of leaving marks or stains on the front surface of your teeth after treatment. They may feel a bit odd at first, but with time you will get used to them and achieve a straighter smile.
Get your straight smile today
Orthodontic treatments are no longer just for kids – adults can benefit from a range of effective, discreet solutions to achieve a straighter, healthier smile. Whether you choose clear aligners like Invisalign, clear ceramic braces or lingual braces, there’s an option to fit your lifestyle and needs.
If you’ve been considering orthodontics for adults, don’t wait any longer. Start your journey to a confident, beautiful smile today with our team at Oakleigh Dental.
