Our Adult Orthodontics Guide: Am I Too Old for Braces?

You probably picture a teenager smiling with wires and brackets when you think of braces. And that’s accurate – kids and teens were the #1 standard for orthodontic patients for a long time. While children are still the majority of patients that orthodontists will see, more and more adults are taking the leap for their smile: today, at least 25% of orthodontic patients are adults!

If you’re over 18, braces and Invisalign are intimidating things to consider. From incorporating a new routine into your day and paying for treatment to the self-conscious feeling of starting braces treatment, there are many reasons why adults struggle to embrace their orthodontic journey. 

Today, we will be breaking down the benefits of adult braces and showing you that there’s no age limit on transforming your smile!

Problems with Bad Bites & Tooth Misalignment

Orthodontic problems are not exclusive to children and teens. Many adults also face issues that can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Leaving them untreated can lead to plenty of harmful dental issues, including uneven wear, speaking difficulties, trouble eating, and more. 

What common dental hygiene and oral health complications can be fixed with orthodontics? Let’s take a look!

• Overcrowding occurs when there isn’t enough space for all your teeth to fit because there’s insufficient underlying bone structure. 
• An overbite is when your upper front teeth overlap with your lower front teeth. An underbite is the opposite, where your lower teeth sit in front of your upper teeth.
• Crossbite happens when some of your upper teeth close inside your lower teeth rather than on the outside.
• Uneven wear and tear on teeth can occur when the surfaces of the teeth are not aligned correctly, causing some teeth to wear down more quickly.

Why Adult Orthodontics Differs from Childhood Orthodontics

While the goal of orthodontic treatment – to create a healthy, beautiful smile – remains the same regardless of age, there are specific factors that make adult orthodontics different from childhood orthodontics:

• Growth: Children are still growing, which can aid in orthodontic treatment. In contrast, adult bones have stopped growing, making certain corrections more challenging.
• Dental Health History: Adults may have a history of dental issues, medical factors, and habits; fillings, missing teeth, gum disease, smoking, bone density, and grinding are just a few. These aspects can change what your orthodontist recommends for treatment and the length of your treatment plan.
• Time: Typically, adult orthodontic treatment will take longer than in children or teens due to the maturity of the bone structure.

How Adults Can Benefit from Braces or Invisalign

Whether you’re a young adult looking to perfect your smile or a parent or grandparent considering orthodontics for health reasons, there are several physical and mental health benefits.

Correcting your bite and realigning teeth significantly improves your oral health, reducing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. And if your teeth are impacting your ability to breathe, speak, or eat, orthodontics can help. 

But the benefits aren’t limited to health alone. A well-aligned smile can make you feel your best by enhancing your appearance, boosting your self-esteem, and improving your confidence!

The world of orthodontics has evolved, offering a wide range of treatments to suit every lifestyle. Whether it’s traditional braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners like Invisalign, there’s an option for everyone – especially adults who want to keep their smile transformation discreet.

Embrace Your Smile at Any Age

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teens. More adults than ever are realizing the benefits of correcting their smiles later in life. Whether you want to boost your confidence with a straighter smile or improve your oral health, it’s never too late to seek orthodontic treatment.

Remember, every smile is unique, and it’s never too late to make yours shine. Start your journey with Pura Vida Orthodontics and discover how to create your best smile with our team!