Do you find yourself forcing a close-lipped grin for pictures? Or dreaming of a nicer smile? You’re not alone! Many adults come into our Alabama offices asking: “can adults get braces”? The answer is yes!
While most orthodontic patients are between the ages of 11 and 14, the number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment is rising every year! But despite the popularity of braces for adults, there’s still plenty of myths out there about wearing Invisalign or getting braces as an adult. We’re here to set the facts straight about orthodontics for adults.
Let’s explore the 5 most common misconceptions about braces for adults!
Myth #1: “I’m too old for braces!”
While the American Association of Orthodontists recommends your first visit to the orthodontist be at age 7, you’re never too old for braces! In fact, our oldest braces patient was 89! The truth about orthodontics is that the forces from braces or Invisalign that guide your teeth into healthy alignment remain the same no matter your age. So yes, you can get braces at 30.
Myth #2: Braces are just about straight teeth
Straight teeth are just the start to the benefits of orthodontics. Yes a healthy, beautiful grin can even take years off your appearance so it’s the most noticeable result. But braces can improve your life beyond cosmetics. Common orthodontic problems such as crowded teeth or underbites affect your quality of life more than you know. Improving your grin can also help:
- Reduce the risk of cavities
- Improve your breathing, speech, and chewing abilities
- Reduce the risk of gum disease
- Alleviate pain from TMJ
- Reduce damage and wear to your teeth from misaligned bites
- Increase your self-confidence and self-image
Myth #3: Getting braces as an adult means treatment is longer
The best part about orthodontics is that advancements are always happening! Our orthodontists use high-quality American-made appliances, the latest technology, and best techniques to straighten your teeth in a comfortable and efficient way.
Metal braces aren’t the same as the ones your mother wore as a teenager— or even the ones you may have worn as a teen! While old braces were hunks of metal made entirely of stainless steel, braces today are made of high-quality metal alloys. Making metal braces less noticeable, gentle on sensitive mouths, and easy to care for! Not to mention that old braces archwires would wear and break easier— requiring more office visits than today’s braces.
Innovations in orthodontic technology have also helped shorten treatment length. At our Wetumpka, Millbrook, and Montgomery orthodontist offices, we’re proud to use state-of-the-art technology such as digital x-rays and the iTero® digital scanner. Our orthodontists use these tools to map out your treatment from every angle and visually guide patients through their treatment process. Letting you spend less time in braces or Invisalign and more time enjoying your new and improved quality of life!
Myth #4 Metal braces is the only option for adults
While metal braces are still a popular option among children, teens, and adults, they’re not the only option! If you’re worried about “metal-mouth”, you’ll be happy to know that ceramic braces and Invisalign are two other highly-effective treatments for adults.
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces. These clear, translucent braces will blend in with the natural color of your teeth for a more discreet treatment. Before the design of ceramic braces was updated, the concerns with choosing this type of braces were:
- staining— from the colored rubber bands
- breakage— clear braces are made of a less-durable composite material.
But our orthodontists use a self-ligating brand of ceramic braces that are stain-resistant and durable.
The most discreet option for braces treatment is Invisalign for adults. Our experience treating teens and adults with Invisalign allows us to efficiently and effectively treat a wide range of conditions. When you choose Invisalign as a treatment option, there’s little disruption to your lifestyle. You’re able to remove your clear aligners to brush and floss your teeth— no need to adapt to a new oral hygiene routine. Removable also means no food restrictions— no need to say goodbye to your favorite foods during treatment.
Myth #5: Braces for adults aren’t affordable
Our orthodontists frequently hear “braces are expensive— especially Invisalign!” all too often. You’ll be glad to know it’s just another myth! As Platinum Invisalign providers, we’re able to offer braces and Invisalign in the same price range! Because every grin is unique, every treatment cost is too. In the past, orthodontic treatment was only covered for individuals 18 years and under. But as demand for adult orthodontics has grown, dental insurances have expanded to offer more coverage— many insurances offer full or partial coverage for Invisalign now too! Our friendly team is proud to work with all insurance types and help you receive your full insurance benefits.
But what if you don’t have dental insurance? No worries! We understand that everyone who walks through our doors has a different financial situation and unique smile needs. That’s why we also offer affordable payment options!
No matter the age you decide to get braces is the best age! Dr. Dunn and Dr. Schreiber have the training and experience to get you results so amazing you can’t help but grin.
Still have questions about getting braces as an adult?
At your first visit, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to prepare for your orthodontic treatment! We’ll give you the tips and tricks you’re looking for to help you get a good night’s rest every night.
We provide a number of different types of braces, including traditional silver braces, clear ceramic braces and Invisalign® for teens and adults!
If you’re looking for a top orthodontist in Montgomery, Millbrook, or Wetumpka AL, we’d love to meet you! Request a complimentary exam for you or your child today.
