Many adults look at their smiles in the mirror and aren't satisfied with what they see. Not every patient has the opportunity to receive orthodontic treatment in childhood. Other patients may have received early treatment but have experienced shifts in tooth alignment over time.
Fortunately, braces are available to patients of all ages, from children to older adults. This blog will explain how braces work, share their advantages, and inform you about multiple choices for fixed braces treatment.
How Braces Work
Fixed braces are one of the most versatile options for orthodontic correction. They work by attaching brackets to the teeth and bands around the molars. An archwire connects the band and bracket. Tiny elastic bands or metal clasps secure the archwire in the bracket.
As your orthodontist tightens the archwire over time, your teeth will move slowly and gently to optimal positions.
Braces typically take between 18 months and three years to complete, though treatment times may be shorter or longer depending on the degree of misalignment.
Advantages of Braces
Build Self-Confidence
You will feel better about your appearance when your smile is aligned and free of gaps. You will be more likely to smile, give others a better first impression, and possibly open career and personal opportunities.
Improve Oral Health
While brushing and flossing with braces is challenging, your oral health will improve after your treatment. Straighter teeth are more accessible for brushing and flossing, leading to less plaque, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Improve Dental Bite
Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites are all treatable with fixed braces. When your bite improves, you can eat more of your favorite foods and lower your risk of developing TMJ (temporomandibular joint syndrome).
Lower Risk of Dental Trauma
Patients whose teeth protrude are more likely to be injured when playing sports or in an accident.
More Perfect Results than Clear Aligners
While clear aligners are an excellent option for many patients, braces can produce nearly perfect results if patients wear their retainers as directed after treatment.
Good Candidates for Adult Braces
The best candidates for adult braces share the following characteristics:
- Patients with crowded, crooked, or gapped teeth
- Patients who have trouble cleaning their teeth due to misalignment
- Patients who want to straighten and even out their smiles
- Good oral health with all cavities and gum disease problems addressed before beginning treatment
Options for Adult Braces
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the standard option and the most affordable. They are also the strongest, making them excellent for patients who need extensive correction.
Gold Braces
Gold braces are metal braces with a thin application of 24-karat gold. Many patients are happy to wear gold braces because they provide a more sophisticated appearance.
Radiance® Clear Braces
Clear brackets make braces less noticeable and allow patients to treat their orthodontic issues with discretion.
Self-Ligating Braces
These advanced braces use clip-on brackets to hold the archwire, enabling the teeth to slide easily into new positions. Self-ligating braces are quicker and gentler than standard metal braces.
Choosing Braces As an Adult
Mature patients may feel self-conscious about wearing braces. However, they can feel good about improving their oral health. They will have gorgeous, well-aligned teeth and a brighter smile when their treatment is complete.
When you see your smile in the mirror or photographs, you will be glad you chose to get braces as an adult. Visiting a qualified orthodontist like Las Cruces Smiles can help you get a new smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How uncomfortable are braces?
Braces may irritate the tender tissues inside your mouth at first. It typically takes a week or two for the cheeks and gums to adjust. Use orthodontic wax to cover the edges while you adapt.
You will quickly become accustomed to the gentle pressure exerted on your teeth. When the orthodontist adjusts your braces, you may feel temporary discomfort that should respond well to over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
Should I see a dentist or orthodontist for braces?
An orthodontist is the best choice when choosing a braces provider. Orthodontists understand the intricacies of tooth movement and jaw anatomy, helping them create beautiful smiles. When you see an orthodontist, you will achieve better, long-lasting results.
Call Las Cruces Smiles
Our orthodontic practice treats every family member. Please call our Las Cruces, NM, office at 575-640-3367 to schedule your consultation. We would gladly meet with you and explain your options.