If you’re part of the one-third of Americans who are unhappy with their smile, you have options for correcting your teeth [1]. It’s never too late to seek orthodontic treatment, even if you’re an adult.
Millions of adults wear braces to correct their teeth, whether they never had to the chance to correct them as a teenager or are seeking orthodontic treatment for a second time. So what are your treatment options for getting braces as an adult?
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces with brackets and wires are often considered to be the most effective way to straighten teeth [2]. They can straighten teeth even for those who have more complex orthodontic issues. Metal braces can fix your smile predictably and as quickly as possible. The average amount of treatment time will vary based on your individual case, but most people have braces for a minimum of six months.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are another great option for adult braces because they help minimize the appearance of orthodontic treatment. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets and wires to help the orthodontia better blend in with your smile. The result is discreet orthodontic treatment. Ceramic braces help move teeth with the speed and predictably of metal braces but with the discreetness that mimics clear aligners.
Lingual Braces
If you want the most discreet option for adult braces, lingual braces may be a consideration. Lingual braces are placed on the sides of your teeth facing your tongue, meaning your treatment will be entirely unnoticeable when you smile. Lingual braces give similar results to traditional metal braces, making them an excellent alternative for those wanting orthodontic treatment that’s unseen from the outside [3].
Invisalign
Invisalign offers clear plastic aligners to help shift your teeth into place. There are many benefits to Invisalign, especially as an adult braces option. Invisalign allows you to completely remove the trays to eat as well as to clean your teeth. The aligners also offer less gum irritation than braces, and, for many, are more comfortable to wear. Invisalign can also treat many of the same cases as braces can, and may even be preferred for some orthodontic cases [4].
It’s Never Too Late for Your Dream Smile
If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with your orthodontist today to discuss your options for straightening your smile. With so many choices for adult braces, you can have the smile you’ve always wanted on your terms!
Sources:
1. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/study-shows-that-one-third-of-american-adults-
are-unhappy-with-their-smile-179281261.html#
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6343314/
3. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/2320206819881607
4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7596023_Outcome_assessment_of_Invisalign_and_traditional_orthodontic_treatment_compared_with_the_American_Board_of_Orthodontic_objective_grading_system
