Braces can work wonders for aligning your teeth and giving you a beautiful new smile. However, the process of getting this orthodontic treatment isn’t exactly the same for adults as it may be for teens. Therefore, if you are considering getting braces as an adult, be sure to take note of the following three important facts before beginning your treatment.
1. Aligning your teeth may come with some complications as an adult.
When getting your teeth aligned as an adult, it is important to know that the process isn’t always exactly the same as it is when you are a preteen. As you age, your dental enamel naturally begins to thin. You also are more likely to have suffered from bone loss, cavities, TMD, or gum disease as an adult. These things all must be taken into consideration by your dentist when choosing the best possible orthodontic treatment for you. For example, your dentist may require that you wait to have braces if there is tooth decay present, and oral surgery to restore your jaw or your teeth may delay the process further. Ultimately, you and your orthodontist will discuss your medical history at length to ensure that braces are your best possible option for straightening your teeth.
2. You have options for aligning your teeth.
Luckily, as dental technology continues to advance, so do your options for orthodontic treatment. Depending on your health, age, and orthodontic needs, you might consider either one of the following options:
- Traditional Braces: This tried and true method is one of the most commonly used treatments for aligning your teeth. With braces, a series of metal brackets will be cemented onto the surface of your teeth. Then, a U-shaped wire will be threaded through the brackets. During routine monthly visits, your orthodontist will make adjustments to the wire to slowly move your teeth into place.
- Invisalign: This treatment method uses a series of clear aligners to move your teeth into place. You will receive these retainer-like trays in the mail every two weeks, which adjust your teeth little-by-little until they are in proper alignment. It is important to wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 22 hours a day, though you can remove them when you eat. That said, these aligners are custom-made for your smile, so no one will even notice you’re wearing them!
3. Braces can be slightly time-intensive.
While braces are a common, reliable method for aligning your teeth, it is important to remember that this treatment does require a bit of a time commitment. When getting braces, be sure to note that you will be required to schedule an orthodontic appointment every 4-6 weeks to have your wires adjusted. That said, once your treatment is complete, your beautiful results will be well worth the effort!
Do you want to schedule an appointment for orthodontic treatment? Contact Meadows Dental Care in Palatine today!