A Comprehensive Guide to Teeth Straightening Treatments for Adults
Having a straight, evenly aligned smile can greatly boost self-confidence. While braces are often associated with tweens and teens, a growing number of adults are exploring teeth straightening options to correct longstanding dental issues and improve their smiles.
Thanks to modern technology, straightening misaligned, crooked, or gapped teeth is easier and more convenient than ever before for adult patients. Here is an in-depth guide to the different teeth straightening treatments available for adults.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal wired braces remain a tried-and-true way to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. An orthodontist bonds brackets onto each tooth and runs a wire through, allowing customized tightening over time to gently reposition the teeth.
Whileefficacious, drawbacks of metal braces include difficulty keeping them clean, soreness from adjustment appointments, and aesthetic concerns of wearing bulky metalwork.
However, smaller low-profile brackets and tooth-colored wires help make metal braces more discrete. Treatment times range from 18-24 months on average.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces improve aesthetics with brackets colored to blend in with natural tooth color rather than metallic silver. Some systems use clear or translucent ceramic brackets for even subtler appearance.
Ceramic braces work similarly to metal ones, with an orthodontist adjusting wires gradually over time to shift teeth position. They cost more than metal braces but remain less visible in the mouth.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners like Invisalign consist of custom thin plastic trays that fit directly over the teeth. New aligners are worn every 1-2 weeks to incrementally move teeth into better position. Aligners are nearly invisible while worn.
Aligners offer convenience and comfort compared to braces. However, they may not work as quickly or effectively for major orthodontic issues. Average treatment with aligners is 12-18 months.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces attach to the backside of teeth, making them 100% invisible from the front. Custom brackets are bonded onto the tongueside surface of each tooth and an archwire attached.
The lingual wire allows the same type of adjustments as regular braces over time. While concealable, lingual braces are more expensive and can impact speech and comfort initially.
Key Considerations in Choosing Teeth Straightening Treatments for Adults
Type of Correction Needed
The extent of orthodontic correction required will factor into which straightening options an orthodontist recommends. Milder issues like small gaps or slightly crooked teeth can often be fixed with clear aligners. More intensive adjustments like complex bite alignment may require metal braces or lingual braces.
Treatment Duration
Most adults prefer straightening treatments with shorter durations if possible. Clear aligners can sometimes achieve results in 12-18 months, faster than the 18-24 months for braces. However, aligners may need to be worn for longer periods than braces for more substantial corrections.
Aesthetic Concerns
Many adults do not want visible metalwork from braces, favoring subtle options like clear aligners or lingual braces. However, aligners must be removed for eating and brushing teeth, briefly exposing them. Lingual braces offer reliable invisibility but with potential speech impairment and discomfort.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyles and occupations may influence choices, as braces require frequent adjustment visits. Clear aligners allow treatment with less office visits plus easy removal for special events or photography. Some perform better with the constant pressure of braces over aligners.
Dental Health Factors
Some individuals are prone to tooth decay or gum recession, which braces may exacerbate. Clear aligner systems generally have lower risk of dental issues during treatment compared to braces.
Costs and Insurance Coverage
Clear aligner systems can cost $3,000-$8,000 compared to $3,000-$6,000 for braces or $5,000-$10,000 for lingual braces on average. Many dental insurance plans provide at least partial coverage for orthodontic treatment.
Other Considerations for Achieving an Improved Smile
Address Pre-existing Dental Issues
Certain dental conditions like gum disease, tooth decay and bite misalignment should be fully treated before undergoing straightening treatment for best results and oral health.
Improve Oral Hygiene Habits
Meticulous brushing and flossing is essential during orthodontic treatment to avoid complications like white spots on teeth. Regular dental cleanings and checkups should be maintained as well.
Use Lip Balm and Avoid Food Staining
Braces hardware can irritate lips and cheeks initially. Lip balm helps soothe irritation. Avoiding staining foods like coffee, tea, and berries helps keep braces components clean.
Be Diligent with Retainers
After teeth straightening, custom retainers should be worn as prescribed to prevent teeth from shifting back. Wearing retainers properly ensures you maintain your new smile.
Achieve the Smile You've Always Wanted
Advancements in orthodontics now allow adults of any age to upgrade their smiles conveniently and discretely. After consulting with an orthodontist, you can decide which solution - like braces, clear aligners, or lingual braces - best fits your lifestyle, budget, and dental needs.
With some consideration of the different systems' pros and cons, adults can now confidently get the properly aligned, beautiful smile they've always wanted.
FAQs
At what age is it too late to get braces?
It's never too late to get braces as an adult. Braces can successfully straighten teeth at any age, even into your 60s and beyond. The biological process is the same regardless of age.
Do braces hurt for adults?
Braces may cause mild soreness or discomfort after adjustments or when teeth first move. Over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve any temporary pain. Discomfort usually subsides within a few days as you get used to braces.
How much do clear aligners cost for adults?
Clear aligner treatment typically costs between $3,000 - $8,000 for adults. More extensive cases usually range closer to $5,000 - $8,000. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of clear aligner treatment.
Can I get my teeth straightened in 6 months?
Most teeth straightening treatments take 12-24 months on average. However in some cases, clear aligners may achieve results in as little as 6-9 months for only minor alignment issues. More serious cases require longer treatment.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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