Yes, Adults Can Wear Braces Too

As an orthodontist in Roy, UT, Dr. Carr wants patients to know two things: 1). Braces aren’t only for teenagers. 2.) It’s never too late to improve the health and appearance of your smile.

In recent years, adult braces have become a growing trend that can be seen on college campuses, in boardrooms, and even adorning the smiles of celebrities like Tom Cruise and Faith Hill. Roughly 1 million adults in the U.S. now wear braces each year, and that number continues to rise.

The first step in determining whether adult braces are right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Carr. During your visit to our Roy orthodontist office, Dr. Carr will review your medical history, discuss possible treatment options, and answer any questions you may have about orthodontic treatment.

For those looking to get a head start on what it means to wear adult braces, here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions.

Why Would an Adult Need Braces?

Teeth that are crooked, crowded, or misaligned during childhood don’t suddenly become straight once an individual turns 18.

If you never received orthodontic treatment as a child to correct a bite, jaw, or malocclusion problem, it’s important to correct these issues regardless of your age. If left untreated, these types of problems increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, jaw pain, problems with chewing, speaking, or biting, and the potential for headaches and migraines.

Studies have shown that individuals suffering from poor oral health also have a higher risk of developing a range of chronic health conditions that include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cancer.

To achieve a healthier smile and body is just one of the many reasons why an adult might decide to wear braces.

Is Orthodontic Treatments for Adults Different Than for Kids?

Braces can provide adults with the same benefits as kids. However, in most cases treatment times for adults are longer than for younger patients. That’s because as an adult, your body has stopped growing, which makes the process of shifting your teeth into the desired position more difficult when compared to a child whose oral health has yet to finish developing.

The average treatment time for adult orthodontic treatment is anywhere between 18 months to three years.

Just as with younger patients, adults may also be required to wear a retainer in order to maintain the results achieved by their orthodontic treatment.

How Do You Determine If You Need Braces?

During your consultation with Dr. Carr you’ll undergo an examination that will determine whether your oral health could benefit from orthodontic treatment.

The initial consultation offers you an opportunity to ask specific questions about what your orthodontic treatment may entail. Common questions you may consider asking include:

• What costs are involved in the treatment?
• How will braces help to correct my oral health problem?
• How long will I need to wear braces?
• How often will I need to schedule appointments for readjustments and checkups?

What are the Different Options for Braces?

While the term braces can apply to a variety of orthodontic appliances, the term is loosely used to describe a custom-made appliance used to straighten teeth and correct a bite through the gradual use of force.

Depending on your preference, budget, and style, there’s a type of braces that will perfectly meet your individual needs.

Types of braces include:

• Metal braces. Made from a high-grade stainless steel, metal braces are attached to the front a patient’s teeth and rank as the most common and recognizable form of orthodontic treatment.
• Clear ceramic braces. Unlike traditional metal braces that stand out from the natural complexion of a patient’s smile, clear ceramic braces blend with the color of teeth to create a much less noticeable appearance. Ceramic braces are worn on the front of a patient’s teeth just as their metal counterparts. And while they may look better, they break more easily compared to metal braces and therefore require more care and adjustment appointments to keep treatment on schedule.
• Invisalign. Invisalign uses clear custom-made aligners to gradually shift a patient’s teeth into their desired position. Patients will receive a new aligner to wear every couple of weeks, which helps to keep the treatment progressing as planned. The clear aligners are nearly invisible, making Invisalign a great choice for patient’s looking for a discreet way to complete their treatment. Invisalign does cost more when compared to metal braces, and the treatment may not be an option for patients that require a severe correction.

Why Wait?

Getting the healthier, better looking smile you’ve always wanted has never been easier. Why wait? If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Roy, UT, then schedule a consultation with Dr. Carr today!