Can You be Too Old for Braces?
Braces tend to be associated with teenagers and in some cases are deemed a right of passage, however, the idea that braces are exclusively for the young is a common misconception. It’s understandable to feel worried as an adult to enter the world of braces but there are plenty of options to choose from today that take the awkwardness out of treatment.
To celebrate this World Orthodontic Health Day on 15th May, we thought we would honour the beauty of braces and the smiles they help us achieve, by proving that age is no barrier when it comes to achieving the smile of your dreams.
Why Adults may Feel Too Old for Braces
It is understandable to be hesitant about getting braces as an adult. As we get older, we tend to not want to draw unwanted attention and the thought of having metal braces, something that is commonly fitted in your teens, is a source of fear and embarrassment for some adults.
The duration of treatment is another reason adults may feel too old for braces. Duration depends on the complexity of your case, but advancements in technology have shortened treatment times for all ages.
Cost is another factor to contend with in adulthood. As we get older, life becomes more expensive and the added cost of braces on top of daily outgoings can feel a lot, however, many orthodontists provide treatment plans.
The Rise in Adult Orthodontics
Today, adults around the world are seeking orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth and achieve a more confident smile. Advancements in technology have made treatments more discreet and comfortable than ever before which is one of the biggest barriers we have found for adults when it comes to braces. Options such as clear aligners and ceramic braces offer adults the opportunity to straighten their teeth without drawing unwanted attention.
The growing awareness of the importance of oral health and its impact on overall well-being is another reason for the rise in adult orthodontics as many adults now understand that straighter teeth are not just cosmetic; they are easier to clean and reduce the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues.
Benefits of Braces Treatment no Matter Your Age
Whether you are an adult returning to orthodontic treatment after receiving it as a teenager or are completely new to the experience, each type of braces treatment can offer benefits for your case, including:
- Improved Oral Hygiene – whether removable or fixed, braces bring attention to our brushing habits and force us to improve how we brush and floss.
- Fresher Breath – when teeth are misaligned, they can trap food particles easily. Straightening teeth can reduce food particles from becoming trapped and causing unpleasant breath.
- Better Digestion – straighter teeth are better at chewing food, which helps with digestion and reduces bloating, gas, and other stomach issues.
- Improved Speech – misaligned teeth can interfere with how your tongue moves against your teeth and the pronunciation of certain words.
- Stronger Jaw Bones – as we age, we lose bone density and misaligned teeth can put even more pressure on the jawbone which can lead to further bone erosion.
- Self-Esteem Boost – the main purpose for adults seeking braces. With straight teeth, you have fresher breath, better digestion, improved speech, and a strong jawbone, why wouldn’t you want to smile more?
Less Visible Braces are a Popular Choice Among Adults
Visibility is the biggest deterring factor of braces in adults, but thankfully today there are plenty of discreet options to choose from. Invisalign is both discreet and removable making them perfect for adults and causing the least amount of disruption to daily life. You can eat as you normally would, brush your teeth easily and they are strong enough to treat most dental issues.
Ceramic braces are another less visible option. They consist of brackets and wires attached to the teeth that are either clear or tooth coloured making them virtually invisible. Another option is a lingual brace, which is fitted on the backs of the teeth. These are another fixed type of brace but virtually undetectable as they sit on the tongue side of the teeth,
It’s Never too Late to Invest in Your Smile with a Specialist Orthodontist in Manchester
No matter your age, our team here at Northenden House Orthodontics has the knowledge and experience in treating patients of all ages, to ensure you gain the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Book a consultation today at our specialist orthodontist in Manchester and begin your comfortable and discreet journey to a brighter smile.
- Mohammad Malik
