Is It Too Late to Have Braces If I am an Adult?

Even adults can have misalignment that should be treated with orthodontic work. Moving your teeth into the right position can prevent serious long-term wear and tear on both the teeth and the jaw joint. Now, Invisalign treatment or another orthodontic approach can ensue that you’ll achieve a perfect smile.

Orthodontic Options for Adults

When we think of braces, we often think of adolescents having their teeth straightened. However, adults are often also in need of orthodontic treatment. This doesn’t necessarily have to be treatment with traditional metal braces, although this is an option. [pullquote]Adults are often also in need of orthodontic treatment…[/pullquote]

Other options for adults who would prefer to maintain the best possible appearance during treatment include:

  • Porcelain braces—braces are made of tooth-colored porcelain instead of metal
  • Lingual braces—braces are placed on the backs of the teeth instead of the fronts
  • Invisalign—clear plastic trays are used to move the teeth into position

You and your orthodontist can determine the treatment that will give you the best results. If your teeth are seriously misaligned, you might have to use traditional braces or something closer to the traditional approach, such as porcelain braces. Less severe work can be accomplished with lingual braces or Invisalign. Be sure to ask your dentist and orthodontist which approach will work well for you.

How Invisalign Works

With traditional braces, rubber bands are attached to metal brackets in order to gradually move the teeth into position. Porcelain and lingual braces work the same way. With aligner trays, the process is somewhat different. Your teeth are still gradually shifted until they reach the correct position, but the movement is accomplished with the plastic trays.

Your treatment consists of using a series of these trays, each one slightly different than the one before. You’ll wear each tray for about two weeks. The slight differences in the shapes of the trays makes your teeth move a bit more each time you change trays. By the time you reach the last tray, your teeth will be properly aligned. And since the trays are virtually invisible, you can accomplish this without anyone even knowing you’re undergoing treatment.

If you’re interested in exploring what Invisalign can do for your smile, contact our skilled dentistry team today.