We often associate braces with tweens and teenagers. But there’s nothing unusual or embarrassing about getting braces as an adult. Depending on which type of braces you get, they may hardly be noticeable.
It’s true that orthodontic treatment tends to be quicker with children. That’s because, at a younger age, bones are still developing and moving, making it easier to correct them with braces. As an adult, your bones are more rigid, so treatment times tend to be a bit longer.
Braces do more than improve the cosmetics of your teeth—they also make it easier to keep your teeth clean. Prevent tooth decay and gum disease by investing in orthodontic treatment today.
Why Get Braces As An Adult?
If you waited until adulthood to consider orthodontic treatment, you might feel like you missed the boat. But that’s far from true! Here’s why you should still consider braces as an adult:
- Increase your confidence. Our self-esteem is something that affects us every day. If we feel embarrassed about our smile, it may change the way we behave in job interviews, posing for photos, and/or hanging out with friends. Braces give you a perfectly straight smile so that insecurities won’t hold you back any longer.
- Improve your oral health. Crooked teeth are harder to clean. It’s easy for plaque and bacteria to accumulate in crowded spaces where your toothbrush can’t reach. With all your teeth in alignment, keeping them clean is a lot easier.
- Make your speech clearer. If you have crooked teeth, they may interfere with your ability to pronounce certain words. When each tooth is aligned, you can improve the clarity of your speech.
What Types Of Braces Can Adults Get?
When you picture a set of braces, you may think about metal brackets and wires. But there are discreet alternatives to metal braces. Clear aligners are so subtle that, when you smile, most people won’t even know that you’re wearing them.
Check out these alternatives to metal braces:
Ceramic braces (clear braces)
Ceramic braces are made of almost the same materials as metal braces; the difference is the brackets on each tooth. Instead of metal, they’re made of clear ceramic. You can still notice them from up-close, but from far away or in photos, it looks like you don’t have braces.
Clear aligners
These plastic trays fit directly on top of your teeth. They’re clear-coloured and eliminate any need for metal wires or brackets. Clear aligners are also removable, meaning you can take them off for photos or special occasions.
Who Shouldn’t Get Braces?
Being an adult is no reason not to get braces. That being said, not everyone is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment (teens included). When you meet with one of our dentists, we can assess whether your gum tissue and bone structure can support braces.
The best time to get braces is right now. The sooner you start your treatment, the sooner it will be finished! If you’re embarrassed about your adult braces, keep this in mind: you’re probably wearing a mask in most public places right now, so people won’t see them anyway!
At our University of Alberta Dental Clinic, we look after all your oral health needs at one location. We offer dental treatment to patients of all ages. To discuss your orthodontic treatment options, contact our dental clinic today!