Am I Too Old for an Orthodontic Treatment to Straighten My Teeth?

Approximately 4.5 million people in the United States wear orthodontic braces to correct crooked teeth. Of those, roughly 80 percent consists of children and teens between the ages of six and 18. However, that does not mean that adults cannot consider orthodontic treatment for straightening their teeth.

Correcting the problem

The right orthodontic treatment can help straighten a patient’s teeth regardless of age.

Changes to teeth

Many people find it surprising that teeth can become crooked at any point in life. In fact, some individuals had straight teeth while younger, but with age, they began to notice an issue with misalignment. No matter the age when teeth begin to shift, it usually has an impact on a person’s feelings. Once proud to flash a smile, they now feel embarrassed.

There are different reasons for teeth to shift. Some of these include the following:

• Genetics — Someone might have beautifully straight teeth for many years, but due to genetics, their teeth will begin to shift at some point
• Age — The aging process also plays a role in the shifting of teeth; something that happens naturally as people age
• Cavities — Especially for someone with a lot of filled cavities, the material used can apply pressure to the surrounding teeth, causing them to shift
• Tooth grinding — Grinding the teeth is yet another reason that teeth become misaligned
• Tooth loss — When someone has a tooth missing, it is possible for the surrounding teeth to shift since there is nothing to stop the movement

Viable orthodontic treatments

Regardless of why someone has crooked teeth, there is no age restriction as to when orthodontic treatment can help. During a consultation, the orthodontist will determine the appropriate treatment on a patient-by-patient basis.

1. Braces

Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment used to correct misaligned teeth. In this case, the orthodontist adheres metal brackets to the front surface of the patient’s teeth. Then, they attach metal wires or strong rubber bands to the brackets. Over several years, tightening of the wires or bands puts pressure on the teeth, forcing them into the right position.

Although some people choose metal wires, most prefer the bands. For kids with crooked teeth, they can choose brightly colored bands for this orthodontic appliance. In comparison, adults can go with white or clear bands that make the braces less obvious. As far as the amount of time it takes to achieve the wanted results, it varies. Most patients wear braces anywhere from two to four years.

2. Invisalign

Invisalign® is merely a more modern type of braces. As a clear orthodontic tray made of quality plastic, they fit over the patient’s teeth to push them together. While this is a more expensive option compared to traditional braces, it offers some specific advantages. For one thing, it is very difficult for anyone to tell when someone is wearing the Invisalign appliance. That is why this is the preferred solution for adults.

Virtually undetectable, this orthodontic treatment is ideal for anyone who works in public, including politicians, ministers, business executives and celebrities. Another advantage over braces is that Invisalign works incredibly fast.

3. Retainers

Retainers are another orthodontic treatment for correcting crooked teeth. Again, this is something people of all ages can use. Similar to the Invisalign appliance, retainers are clear, making them hard to see. The biggest drawbacks are needing to wear them at all times and waiting longer to see the results due to them being a less-invasive approach.

You are never too old

Whether young or old, it is never too late to have an orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://www.carolinasmilesdentist.com or call Carolina Smiles Family Dental at (828) 974-3326 for an appointment in our Brevard office.

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