Can You Get Braces As An Adult?
At Loughborough Orthodontics, we often encounter adults who are hesitant about getting braces. There are plenty of misconceptions that deter adults from seeking orthodontic treatment. In this article, we aim to clarify these misconceptions, educate you about the benefits of adult braces, explain the process of getting braces, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Misconceptions about Adult Braces
One of the most common misconceptions about braces is that they are only meant for children or teenagers. This false belief is deeply ingrained in our society and can be traced back to our childhoods when braces were typically associated with adolescents. However, advances in orthodontics over the years mean that braces are now suitable and effective for people of all ages, including adults.
Another misconception is that braces are primarily for cosmetic purposes. While improving your smile is one of the benefits of braces, it’s not the only one. Orthodontic treatment is also essential for correcting misaligned teeth, which can lead to problems like difficulty in cleaning, tooth decay, gum disease, and even difficulty in speech.
Lastly, many adults believe that braces are uncomfortable, painful, or will affect their professional lives negatively. Today’s braces, however, are more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than ever before. With options like clear braces or invisible aligners available, you can undergo orthodontic treatment discreetly.
Benefits of Adult Braces
Braces can offer numerous benefits for adults. First and foremost, they can help improve your oral health. Misaligned teeth can make cleaning difficult, leading to plaque accumulation, tooth decay, and gum disease. By straightening your teeth, braces make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
Braces can also help improve your bite, reducing the risk of wear and tear and preventing issues like jaw pain or temporomandibular joint disorders. Moreover, a well-aligned bite can improve your speech and chewing ability, enhancing your overall quality of life.
Lastly, the aesthetic benefits of braces cannot be overlooked. A straight, well-aligned smile can boost your self-confidence and make you feel more comfortable in social or professional situations. At Loughborough Orthodontics, we’ve seen first-hand how a beautiful smile can transform our patients’ lives.
The Process of Getting Braces as an Adult
Getting braces as an adult isn’t much different from getting them as a child or teenager. The process starts with a consultation, during which we assess your oral health and discuss your treatment goals. We’ll take x-rays and impressions of your teeth to create a detailed treatment plan.
Once your braces are on, you’ll need to visit our clinic every six to eight weeks for adjustments. These appointments are crucial to ensure your braces are working as they should be and your teeth are moving in the right direction.
After your braces are removed, you’ll need to wear a retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position. It’s important to wear your retainer as instructed to maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Adult Braces
Many adults have questions about braces, which is why I’ve compiled a list of the most common ones.
How long will I have to wear braces? The duration of the treatment varies depending on the severity of your misalignment. On average, adults wear braces for about 9 to 15 months, severe cases may be longer.
Will braces affect my daily life? Modern braces are designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. You’ll need to take some extra care when eating and cleaning your teeth, but otherwise, your daily life should not be significantly affected.
Are braces painful? While you might experience some discomfort after getting braces or after adjustments, this discomfort usually subsides after a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort.
Why Choose Loughborough Orthodontics for Adult Braces?
At Loughborough Orthodontics, we understand the unique needs and concerns of our adult patients. We offer a variety of treatment options, including traditional braces, clear braces, and invisible aligners, to cater to different preferences and lifestyles.
Our team of experienced orthodontists is dedicated to providing personalised care and achieving the best possible results for our patients. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure your treatment is as efficient and comfortable as possible.
Moreover, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. We will explain every step of your treatment process, answer any questions you may have, and provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure your orthodontic journey is smooth and successful.
Braces are not just for kids or teenagers – they are for anyone who wants to improve their oral health and boost their confidence with a beautiful smile. If you’ve been considering braces, we hope this blog has cleared your doubts and given you the confidence to take the next step. Contact our team at Loughborough Orthodontics today to start your journey towards a healthier, more beautiful smile.