Adult Orthodontics In West Palm Beach & Wellington, FL
Approximately 20 percent of those wearing braces are over the age of 18, so adult orthodontics is not rare.
As an adult, you have many of the treatment options that younger patients have, but the treatment may vary slightly. Your bones have stopped growing, so your teeth and jaw are not as malleable as they were when you were a teenager. As a result, your treatment may take longer, around two years in most cases.
Why Should Adults Get Braces?
Adults may have crooked teeth for a number of reasons. Perhaps your parents couldn’t afford to pay for braces when you were a child, or your teenage self may have refused to wear them. In some instances, adult teeth shift as you age due to lost teeth, changes to your jaw or failure to wear your retainer as a teen. No matter what the reason, adults can find the help they need to have the straight teeth they desire.
Choosing Braces That Are Right For You
Adults often opt for less noticeable braces, such as clear aligners or ceramic braces, in order to maintain a more professional appearance. Invisalign braces allow adults to straighten their teeth in a nearly undetectable manner. These clear aligners are removable, so you can take them out to eat or brush your teeth. Ceramic braces remain on your teeth during the treatment period, but since they are tooth-colored, they are less noticeable than metal braces.
You can also invest in braces that go on the back of your teeth, known as a lingual appliance. Or you may simply opt for traditional metal braces that are more noticeable but promise excellent results. Your orthodontist will discuss your options and help you make the choice that is best for your particular situation.