Adult Orthodontics: What Are Your Options?

The rapidly evolving area of adult orthodontics focuses on correcting dental abnormalities in adults. More and more people are getting their teeth straightened to improve their oral health and appearance, making orthodontics no longer only a field for kids and teens. The use of adult orthodontics is on the rise. Even those who got braces as kids or teenagers may experience tooth movement as they become older, hence needing orthodontic treatment later in life.

Options for adult orthodontics from a general dentist

Nowadays, adults who want straighter teeth may choose from a wide variety of orthodontic treatment options, such as the following:

Metal braces

Braces are often the first idea that drops into people’s minds when it comes to adult orthodontics. These braces are permanently attached to the teeth and removable only by a dental professional once the course of treatment is over. Dentists use metal braces to apply pressure to the teeth by tightening wires around the brackets. The force causes the teeth to move.

Patients with metal braces have to be careful about what they eat and drink. It is vital to avoid having anything that could get stuck to the braces. One should also be cautious while cleaning beneath them to avoid breaking any part of the structure. In addition, depending on the treatment plan, braces may need to be worn for as long as three years.

Metal braces may correct a wide variety of issues related to tooth alignment and bite. In addition, the option is popular among young people since it is possible to use different colored rubber bands to tighten the braces. Some adults may not find that level of personalization appealing. In any case, this is a practical method of correcting misaligned teeth and is effective in most cases.

Clear braces

Because of their discreet design, these braces are becoming popular among working professionals. Clear ceramic or porcelain may be used to create the braces. It is quite unlikely that anybody will even realize you are wearing them.

After the treatment, the dentist will remove the braces permanently bonded to the teeth. The process is quite similar to metal braces. Another similarity is that transparent braces, like traditional metal braces, need regular visits to the dentist to have the wires tightened.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces, especially among adults. This type of orthodontic treatment utilizes transparent, removable plastic aligners. Wearers do not have to see a dentist to take them out. In fact, patients can take them out whenever they want to eat, floss, or brush their teeth.

In most cases, wearers must change their aligners around once every two weeks as the teeth move. The aligners are replaced with the next in the series based on how far along in the treatment process each person is. Clear aligners may treat a wide variety of orthodontic issues, both mild and severe.

Ceramic braces

When it comes to orthodontic treatment for adults, ceramic braces provide a unique middle ground. They are a hybrid of transparent ceramic brackets and metal wires. With this structure, the braces aim to be less noticeable while retaining certain features of conventional braces. This effectively results in braces that function similarly to the most traditional ones but are less noticeable to others.

These are great alternatives to conventional braces for individuals who value a more discrete treatment option. Ceramic braces are more susceptible to stains from foods and drinks. So, there are limitations to this choice, and you will have to be extra careful about maintaining oral hygiene and making sure not to consume foods or beverages that are staining.

Don't delay getting a straighter smile

The health benefits of straight teeth extend well beyond their esthetic value. Straight teeth are less likely to develop cavities or gum disease because they are easier to brush and floss. For example, heart disease and stroke are only two of the many dire health consequences linked to untreated gum disease. If you need your teeth straightened, don't delay.

If money is a concern, know that many dental insurance plans now cover adult orthodontics. Adults may have a much harder time keeping their orthodontic visits than children and teenagers. However, many of today's choices do not need as many visits to the general dentist. To learn more about your options when it comes to adult orthodontics, contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://gkdentaloffice.com or call GK Dental PC at (617) 826-6075 for an appointment in our Everett office.

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