Have you ever seen a photo of yourself or passed by the mirror and wondered how different things could be if you’d had braces as an adolescent? We hear from adults all the time who are uncomfortable with the way their teeth look or function, and many of them worry that the chance for a straighter smile has passed them by. Fortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth!
Here at Murray & Olson Orthodontics, we can’t turn back the hands of time, but we can still give you the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. In fact, more adults than ever before are exploring all the benefits orthodontic treatment has to offer, thanks to a wide variety of treatment options and innovative techniques! That includes braces, which have undergone a major makeover in recent years. Today’s braces are more aesthetically appealing than any previous designs and give patients a comfortable and effective way to straighten their smile.
Since the same physiological process applies to both adults and adolescents when it comes to moving the teeth through bone, you’re never too old to improve your oral health! To learn more about adult orthodontics and how braces can help you achieve a straighter smile, keep reading below.
Reasons for choosing orthodontics as an adult
There are many reasons for the recent increase we’ve seen in adults inquiring about orthodontic treatment. Part of it has to do with age—as we get older, we tend to gain a better understanding of how oral health and body health are linked. This often encourages adult patients to take better care of their teeth and gums,which may include specialized dental or orthodontic care.
Other patients get in touch because they received treatment earlier in life, but it was never completed. They’re hoping to finish that process, or perhaps begin again from scratch. Similarly, we get a lot of requests for touch-up treatment from previous orthodontic patients. Over the years, biting and chewing wears down our teeth and leaves them with a little extra wiggle room, while our bone density decreases and causes the teeth to shift. Genetic and improper retainer use post-treatment can also lead to movement of the teeth. Our doctors may choose to monitor these patients, treat them with new retainers, or repeat treatment with braces or aligners.
Then there are the adult patients who simply want to improve the cosmetic appearance of their smile! Since research has shown that an attractive smile can have a positive impact on your personal and professional life, we support whatever reason you have for exploring what orthodontic treatments are available to you. Let’s take a look at what options we have here at Murray & Olson Orthodontics!
Traditional metal braces
Metal braces are one of the most common types of treatment, and one of the most easily recognizable as well. As we mentioned above, they’ve gone through some big design changes in recent years and much more comfortable and attractive than they used to be. They’re also customizable, with a fun variety of colored bands to choose from.
You can count on metal braces to deliver excellent results, and they are especially useful in more complicated cases. Since they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do, they are often the most economical option. The strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness of traditional metal braces keep them at the top of the treatment list!
Clear braces
Clear braces work in much the same way as metal braces, with the added benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. These are able to blend in with a patient’s natural smile for a more discreet straightening option, particularly when they’re paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties.
Although ceramic braces are tough, the material they are made from is can be more prone to chipping or cracking than their metal counterparts. They may be slightly more expensive than metal braces, as well. For this reason, we typically recommend clear braces to our adult and older teen patients only.
Invisalign clear aligners
Invisalign clear aligners are technically an alternative to traditional braces, but we think they’re worth knowing about anyway! This exciting system uses a series of customized aligners to straighten the teeth instead of brackets, wires, and bands. Like braces, they work by exerting gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them into the desired positions. Because they’re both clear and removable, they offer adult patients an extra measure of freedom and flexibility they love!
Any of these options can be an excellent fit for a busy adult, and when you trust your smile to our doctors, they’ll only recommend the best treatment for your unique smile and specific needs.
Find your best smile at Murray & Olson Orthodontics
Not all types of braces are appropriate for every case, and what works for one patient may not work for another. This is why Dr. Murray and Dr. Olson will create a customized treatment plan for you based on your smile, lifestyle, and goals. When you schedule a FREE visit at our Visalia office, you’ll receive a thorough examination before discussing your concerns, questions, and appropriate treatment options. This helps to ensure you get the best results possible in the least amount of time!
Whether you’re 8 or 80, you can achieve a beautiful smile and healthy mouth. It’s not too late to stop hiding your smile—there’s still plenty of time to embrace everything orthodontics has to offer! If you’d like to learn more about how our braces can transform your teeth, get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with one of our doctors.