Here at Vermette Orthodontics, we frequently hear from adults who would like to improve their smile but worry that they’re too old for orthodontics to be effective. Fortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth! While adolescents do make up a significant portion of orthodontic patients, the number of adults we see has grown dramatically in recent years. In fact, 1 in every 4 orthodontic patients is over the age of 18! That’s why we’re debunking common myths about adult braces.
If you’ve spent a lifetime feeling unhappy or self-conscious about the way your smile looks, there’s never been a better time to explore what orthodontics has to offer you as an adult patient. Our Concord practice is the perfect place to begin! We offer a wide range of affordable treatment options, including traditional braces. These orthodontic staples have undergone a major makeover and today’s braces are more comfortable and efficient than ever before. However, some adult patients are still on the fence about using them.
If you’d like to improve your smile but aren’t sure about using braces to do so, it’s most likely down to what you think you know about them. Let’s take a look at some of the most common myths about braces for adults and show you why you’re never too old to achieve a healthier (and happier) smile!
“It’s too late for braces to be successful.”
It’s true that orthodontists prefer to straighten teeth as early as possible. When mouths are still developing and the jaw bone is still growing, it is easier to move the teeth into better positions. Early treatment can also give children a better chance at long-term bite stability and may prevent the need for tooth extractions later in life.
Things can sometimes be a little more complicated for adults. The teeth and gums must be healthy before attempting any tooth movement, so some dental work may be required before we can put braces on. Since an adult’s jaw bone is denser and more mature than a child’s, the teeth may take a bit longer to move into the desired positions. There’s still no such thing as being “too old” for treatment, though! Your age is just one more variable for Dr. Vermette to factor into your customized treatment plan.
Another important aspect to consider is the psychological advantages to waiting until adulthood to explore orthodontics. Adults recognize that treatment is an investment and treat it as such. They are more likely to be responsible and follow the orthodontist’s instructions, which ensure the best results in the shortest amount of time.
“I’m afraid braces will make me look unprofessional.”
It’s not uncommon for professional adults to worry that braces may have a negative impact on their career. Modern braces have smaller brackets and tend to be much sleeker than they once were, but for those who are image conscious and want to keep a low profile during treatment, there are other options available. At Vermette Orthodontics, we offer the following treatment methods.
Metal braces
Metal brackets are composed of a mix of high-quality metals, so they’re very durable. In spite of that, they’re much lighter and comfortable than they used to be. Metal braces have a long track record of producing excellent results, especially for cases that are more serious or complicated. Since they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do, metal braces are often slightly more affordable than other options.
Clear braces
Clear braces function in much the same way metal braces do, but come with the added benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. The brackets are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but better able to blend in with a patient’s natural smile. This gives patients a more discreet way to straighten their smile, especially when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties!
Clear braces are sturdy, too, but the material is more prone to chipping and cracking. Since metal braces can tolerate more pressure than ceramic ones, they may be a better option for those who require severe corrections to be made. Clear brackets are often a bit more costly than metal brackets, as well. Since they can be more expensive and prone to breakage, we generally recommend clear braces to our older teen and adult patients only.
Invisalign clear aligners
Invisalign is actually an alternative to traditional braces, but it’s still a system worth knowing about! Invisalign consists of a series of clear removable aligners that are custom designed to fit comfortably over the patient’s teeth. Like traditional braces, these customized aligners gently move the teeth into the desired positions over time. However, they don’t require any brackets, bands, or wires to do so.
These clear, removable aligners do offer patients a bit more flexibility than traditional braces. They’re designed to be taken out when eating or drinking, so there aren’t any food restrictions. Oral hygiene techniques are simple since the aligner is removed before brushing and flossing.“Braces are too expensive.”
While orthodontic treatment of any kind is an investment of your time and finances, the benefits can last a lifetime! When you schedule a complimentary consultation with Vermette Orthodontics, we’ll outline your customized treatment plan and what it includes. This will generally be:
- all appointments, including emergency visits
- braces or aligners
- retainers
- post-treatment follow-up visits
Our treatment fee is a reflection of the skill, expertise, and care that goes into improving your oral health. Braces can be a big investment so our office offers a variety of payment options, including no-interest payment plans. We’ll also help you maximize any orthodontic insurance and flex spending benefits!
Leave your doubts behind and embrace a straighter smile with Vermette Orthodontics
Whether you’re 18 or 80, it’s never too late to achieve a healthier smile! When you choose Vermette Orthodontics for your orthodontic needs, you’re guaranteed nothing but the best care for your unique smile. Dr. Vermette and the rest of our talented team will provide you with a stress-free orthodontic experience and exceptional results. If you’re ready to take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted, get in touch with us today to schedule your FREE consultation!