Braces For Adults: An Overview
Most people think of braces as something only for teens and children, but more and more adults are choosing to get braces. Most adults who get braces do so due to an orthodontic issue or a desire to look and feel better. The main reason people get braces at a younger age is that their smiles are still growing and adjusting, making it the perfect time to adjust the teeth. However, it’s never too late to have a healthy, confident smile!
There are several reasons why adult braces are still necessary. An accident could cause misalignment, patients may only now have the financial stability to afford treatment, or there may be aesthetic or medical concerns, including:
- Headaches
- Chronic jaw pain
- TMJ
- Earaches
- Chewing issues
- Overcrowding
- Gaps in teeth
You can find out if braces are right for you with a consultation from the knowledgeable staff at Hodnett Orthodontics.
Benefits Of Orthodontic Treatment As An Adult
The majority of adults desire a straighter, more aesthetically pleasing smile when they consider getting braces. Although the most obvious advantage of adult braces is having straight teeth, there are many other benefits that can convince even the most apprehensive person to consider their options. Adult braces can improve oral hygiene, boost self-esteem, and eliminate headaches, earaches, and jaw aches.
Moreover, less crowding makes teeth easier to brush and floss, which aids in the prevention of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
The truth is that patients seek braces for adults for a variety of reasons. Whatever your reason for wanting to explore your options, our team at Hodnett Orthodontics can help you make decisions about your oral health without the social stigmas that are often associated with receiving orthodontic treatment later in life.
Choosing The Right Braces For You
Hodnett Orthodontics provides a variety of braces in Charlotte, NC, for you to choose from. While each option is equally effective, we understand that appearance can be an important factor in the treatment process, so we want you to feel confident and at ease throughout.
Metal Braces
When most people think of braces, they envision the more traditional metal brackets. Metal braces work by attaching a bracket to the front of each tooth and linking them together with a metal wire and rubber bands to gradually shift your teeth into place.
Clear Braces
These brackets are more discreet than traditional metal brackets because they are made of ceramic that matches your natural tooth color.
Self-Ligating Braces
Dr. Hodnett offers SmartClip™ and Clarity SL™ self-ligating braces, which function in the same way that traditional or clear braces do. However, instead of rubber bands, the brackets have built-in clips with sliding door technology to keep the wires in place. Adjustment appointments with self-ligating braces are typically shorter and less frequent.
How Long Will Treatment Last?
Braces function by gradually shifting teeth into the correct position. Because each person’s teeth are unique, corrective orthodontics takes varying amounts of time for each individual. Therefore, without an initial consultation, it is difficult to estimate the duration of your specific treatment. With that being said, the majority of adults with braces wear them for approximately one to two years.
