Children aren’t the only ones who need orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth and improve their smile. In fact, many adults seek orthodontic treatment every year. If you’re interested in getting orthodontist near me for adults, here are some of the most common types of treatment and why they’re so beneficial to your overall oral health.
What Is Braces (Orthodontics)?
Braces are a type of orthodontic treatment. The word braces is often shortened to just braces, and it refers to orthodontics in general. Other types of treatments include Invisalign and retainers, but braces are by far the most common option for correcting an overbite or underbite when children reach their teens. An orthodontist is a specialist in dental health, who helps patients correct issues with their teeth, jaw joints and bite alignment.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
There are a few different types of orthodontic treatments, but perhaps one of your biggest questions is whether or not you’re eligible for any. In general, most adults can receive treatment in some form. For example, traditional braces can be used to correct teeth that haven’t moved properly over time or aren’t straight enough to remain comfortable. You might also be able to use headgear that forces teeth into position while they develop a bit more as well as removable aligners and other appliances designed to gently force your teeth into better alignment.
Financing Options
If you’re an adult considering orthodontic treatment, there are a number of financing options available to help you pay for it. Depending on how much work is required, prices can vary widely. One-time costs are usually paid in full at the time of treatment but depending on your financial situation, some financial institutions may offer financing over several years or ask that you pay monthly installments until your debt is paid off. If you have dental insurance that covers orthodontics, check with your provider about paying for any out-of-pocket expenses not covered by your plan.
Adult Braces vs. Invisalign
One of the most frequently asked questions about orthodontics for adults is which is better, braces or Invisalign? There’s no right answer to that question—it really depends on your circumstances. Both options are relatively easy to use and, when it comes down to it, they both get results: straighter teeth and a healthier bite. So if you’re considering getting braces as an adult, consider these questions: Are you willing to wear metal wires in your mouth for months or years at a time? Are you able to take special care of your teeth and gums so that tooth decay doesn’t become an issue?
Do I Really Need Braces?
Lots of adults are nervous about having braces. They’re afraid of pain and worried that their teeth will be unnatural. But there’s no reason to be anxious! For one thing, you have a lot more adult teeth to work with than you did as a child, so there’s a higher probability that your orthodontist can straighten them all up in one go. Also, new materials and tooth-straightening technology mean your teeth will look great during and after treatment—and they won’t feel too different from how they feel now. If you’re considering it, schedule an appointment with an orthodontist near you today; it could change your life for better dental health!
How Long Will I Have to Wear Them?
In some cases, adults may need to wear braces for longer than their younger counterparts. The amount of time you will wear your braces for depends on how severe your case is and how well you maintain your treatment. After all, there’s no point in wearing them if you’re not going to keep them clean! In general, a 6-year-old with mild to moderate orthodontic issues can expect to wear braces between 15 and 18 months. For adults with severe orthodontic needs, treatment can last anywhere from 2 to 3 years or more! If you have questions about whether you might be a candidate for orthodontics, talk with an expert like Beaumont Orthodontics.
Advantages of Being an Adult with Braces
When you hear braces what do you think of? Teenagers with braces, right? You might be surprised to learn that adults can get orthodontic treatment as well. One of the advantages of being an adult with braces is faster teeth straightening. Most adults are older and more responsible, so they don’t put off appointments or dental work for long periods. This means that adult patients are often able to get their treatments finished quicker than younger patients who may have a lot going on in their lives that gets in the way of completing treatments. Also, thanks to advances in technology and treatment options, adult orthodontics is easier on your teeth than ever before; there’s no need to sacrifice your dental health just because you’re an adult!
Last Thoughts on Having Adult Braces
You can have orthodontic treatment at any age! Most people assume that only children need to have their teeth straightened, but if you are interested in getting braces as an adult, know that many orthodontists offer braces for adults. Many parents decide to get their children’s teeth straightened while they are still young because it prevents them from having to wear traditional metal braces as an adult, which is usually required after their permanent teeth come in. It also saves money since you won’t have to pay for another set of braces when your child reaches adulthood. If you want a more refined smile or better bites, there’s no time like the present! Just schedule an appointment with your local orthodontist today.
