Living With Braces as an Adult — Three Things You Need to Know

If you’re like most people, you still associate braces with young teenagers. However, an increasing number of adults are opting for braces for a variety of reasons. One partial cause of this is that because of advances in dental technology have allowed most people to keep their teeth for the rest of their lives — only a few short decades ago, the majority of senior citizens wore dentures. This has caused people to feel more invested in maintaining an attractive, functional smile for as long as possible. The second reason is that modern orthodontics for adults means that patients won’t be wearing a mouthful of metal.

The following are just three things that you should know about braces for adults.

Braces for Adults Are Discreet

Clear braces make it possible for adults to wear braces and still maintain a professional, polished appearance. Clear braces are barely noticeable, an others may not even realize you are wearing them at all. Even for those who do notice, clear braces aren’t nearly the visual distraction their metal counterparts are.

Braces Aren’t Just for Appearances

Although there’s no denying that a smile featuring even, straight teeth can significantly improve anyone’s appearance, braces for adults also help with alignment and crowding issues that may interfere with the ability to chew food and to speak clearly. Straight teeth also reduce the amount of plaque buildup that can occur in cracks and crevices caused by crooked teeth, ultimately decreasing your chances of developing damaging tooth decay.

Braces for Adults Can Be Removed While Eating

Certain types of adult braces, known more commonly as aligners, can be removed during mealtimes and snacks as well as when you brush and floss your teeth. You can also choose to take them off for special occasions such as important formal business meetings, job interviews, or celebratory functions with family and friends.

Many adults find that clear braces provide them with the appearance they want as well as increase their ability to enjoy an overall good quality of life. Please feel free to contact us if you’d like more information on adult braces or to schedule an appointment to explore whether adult braces are a good option for you.