Braces and adolescence go hand in hand. However, a person’s options for orthodontic treatment don’t end once adulthood is reached. In fact, you are never too old to get braces. The only thing that can prevent you from aligning your smile with braces for adults, really, is you.
Age Is Just a Number in Orthodontics
Your orthodontist takes many things into consideration when making recommendations for straightening your teeth. Namely, your budget, smile goals, and the current state of your oral health. Age, however, is rarely a deciding factor. Adults’ teeth can be moved just like a teen’s – the same process and force is used to shift teeth and roots.
How Does Adult Orthodontic Treatment Differ from Teens?
Braces are usually seen on teens because this is the best age to shift teeth into alignment, while the mouth is still growing and forming. But it isn’t the only age to get the job done. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, one in three orthodontic patients is an adult. Though adults have denser bone tissue than kids and teens, age does not keep teeth from moving – it just might take a little longer.
Adults may have other elements that complicate the shape and condition of their smile, like missing teeth, fillings, worn teeth, or cosmetic dentistry. Adult habits, like grinding your teeth and smoking can also complicate matters. For some adult orthodontic patients, other problems – like gum disease, cavities, infections, or damaged teeth – may need to be addressed before you can get braces.
What Are Braces Treatment Options for Adults?
Most adults are drawn to the more discreet options of braces, like Invisalign for adults or clear brackets and wires. You don’t see too many adults with full-on metal mouth, and it really isn’t necessary to worry that you will look this way if that concern is the reason you’re avoiding the orthodontist. Even if you aren’t a good candidate for Invisalign, there are under-the-radar options that blend into your tooth enamel and are harder to see on the teeth so your orthodontia won’t be that noticeable.
Your orthodontist gets it. You’re a grown up with a job and colleagues and a social life. The last thing you want is to stick out because of your brace face. We work with you to determine the most appropriate and manageable adult braces option for your lifestyle. Today’s braces are more comfortable and less noticeable than ever.
Always See an Orthodontist to Straighten Your Teeth
Your general dentist may be a certified Invisalign provider, but your orthodontist is trained specifically in the movement of teeth – and that includes Invisalign and every other method of straightening teeth. That is their entire career and expertise – moving teeth. If you want to align your smile, close gaps, eliminate an overbite, or just get straight, beautiful teeth, a Woodinville orthodontist is the expert you want to see.
Get Adults Braces in Woodinville
If you’ve always wanted straight teeth but skipped braces as a teen – or had braces but didn’t wear your retainer and your teeth shifted – now is the time to make it happen. Your smile will be healthier, better functioning, and your confidence will skyrocket. Contact Soleil Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation.