6 Things To Know About Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Many adults think that they don’t need braces, or that they’re too old to get them. That can be farther from the truth! Many adults can (and in some cases, should) get braces or other types of orthodontic treatment. At Stormberg Orthodontics, we see adult patients all the time! Our team is happy to help people of all ages, no matter what background or dental work they have done in the past. If you’re an adult who is seeking orthodontic treatment, here are 6 things you need to know.

1. Orthodontic Treatment Can Be Affordable- Because braces have become more advanced, they can be affordable. Check to see if your dental insurance covers braces. If not, see if your local orthodontist’s office offers customized payment plans in-office. This can help budget for your investment.
2. Traditional Braces Are Not The Only Option- Today, there are many more options than just metal braces. Ceramic brackets are popular options among patients. Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, is another great option for those who want an invisible look and who are looking for more convenience in their daily life during orthodontic treatment.
3. Orthodontic Treatment Improves Oral Health- Getting a straighter smile is more than just fixing appearances- it can also improve your health! By straightening your teeth, you lower your risk of cavities, tooth diseases, decay, chipping, and TMJ/TMD dysfunction.
4. Treatment Time Varies Person-to-Person- On average, wearing braces/Invisalign can take six months to two years to straighten teeth, depending on the objective of each patient. This is mostly true for adults since the teeth and jawbones/tissue have more dense bone. However, everyone is different. Children can get away with braces in less than two years.
5. You’ll Have To Wear Retainers- After finishing wearing braces or clear aligners, you will have to wear retainers right after. This helps keep the teeth straight and the bite aligned while the bone fills into the new position of the teeth. If you don’t wear a retainer, you will most likely have to go back to wearing braces/clear aligners again. This is a life-time commitment, full time retainer wear for 8-12 weeks, followed by nighttime wear for life and assurance everything stays in place.
6. It Can Be Uncomfortable- The process of wearing braces or clear aligners can be uncomfortable, especially in the beginning. However, this is a good thing! The pressure means that the teeth are shifting into their new position. To ease the discomfort, over-the-counter pain medications can be used and a few tricks and tools are given at the initial start appointment.