Adult Braces – Is it too late to have straighter teeth?

Perhaps you missed out on having braces when you were a child, and now maybe you’re in your 30s, 40s or 50s and are wondering if it’s too late?

Maybe you think you might have to wear braces for years and it will cost too much to get results. Thankfully, help is at hand. It is never too late to have braces as an adult to straighten your teeth - even in your 80s or 90s - as long as your teeth are healthy enough to allow the necessary movement then we can help.

Orthodontic treatment is no longer about uncomfortable metal braces, nor is it just for teenagers. There are common misconceptions about braces as an adult, such as the belief that they are only for children or that they are always highly visible and uncomfortable.

Adults of all ages can now enjoy the benefits of straighter teeth as their teeth are healthy enough for treatment. Thanks to a range of modern, almost invisible aligners and adult braces designed to suit every type of lifestyle.

At Zental, we know everything there is to know about straightening teeth, with and without the use of conventional braces, no matter how old you are. Just as long as your teeth and gums are reasonably strong and healthy, in some cases adult braces treatment can take only a matter of a few months.

Understanding Adult Braces

Adult braces are a common orthodontic treatment option for individuals who want to straighten their teeth and improve their oral health. Many adults believe that it’s too late to undergo orthodontic treatment, but this is a misconception. Adult braces can be just as effective as they are for teenagers and young adults.

Orthodontic treatment for adults is designed to address a variety of dental issues, from crooked teeth to bite problems. Whether you’re dealing with minor misalignments or more complex dental concerns, adult braces can help you achieve a healthier, more attractive smile. The process involves applying gentle pressure to move teeth into their desired positions, which can significantly enhance both the function and appearance of your teeth.

Moreover, undergoing orthodontic treatment as an adult can have numerous benefits beyond just aesthetics. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, correcting bite issues can alleviate jaw pain and improve overall oral health. So, if you have been putting off getting your teeth straightened, remember that it’s never too late to invest in your smile and well-being.

Why Consider Braces as an Adult?

As an adult, getting braces can improve both your oral health and confidence. Straightening teeth helps with cleaning, prevents gum disease, and alleviates jaw pain caused by misalignment. It can also improve speech, make eating more comfortable, and prevent long-term dental issues. Modern options like clear aligners and ceramic braces offer discreet solutions, making it easier for adults to invest in a healthier, more attractive smile.

Types of Adult Braces

There are several types of adult braces available. Some of the most popular options are:

Clear Aligners

Invisalign is the most popular orthodontic treatment for adults due to its discreetness and comfort. Clear aligners are a great option for adults who want to straighten their teeth without the hassle of traditional braces.

Metal braces

Traditional metal braces are a common and effective orthodontic treatment method. Metal braces are usually recommended for those that do not qualify for other, more discreet aligner systems.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are an alternative to traditional metal braces, made from clear or tooth-colored ceramic.

Six Month Smiles

Six Month Smiles is a short-term clear adult brace system, which is designed to discreetly straighten your front teeth in 6 months. The system achieves speedy results, focusing only on realigning the front teeth. It is not suitable for everyone and careful selection is paramount.

Quick Straight Teeth™

Quick Straight Teeth™ uses fixed or removable clear braces to align your front teeth. Concentrating on the front 6 to 8 teeth to help correct mild to moderate problems quickly.

Treatments take between 12 to 24 weeks depending on complexity.

How Adult Braces Work

Metal braces work by applying continuous, gentle pressure over time to gradually move teeth into the correct alignment. Here’s how they function:

1. Brackets are attached to the teeth, and archwires are threaded through them.
2. The archwire exerts pressure on the teeth, guiding them into proper position.
3. Elastic bands or springs may be used to apply additional force to correct bite issues.
4. Regular adjustments are made to tighten the wires and maintain consistent pressure.
5. Over time, the teeth move into alignment, correcting issues like crowding, spacing, and bite problems.

Treatment can take anywhere from several months to a couple of years, depending on the complexity of the case. Modern options like clear aligners work similarly, using custom-made trays that gradually shift the teeth.

Choosing the Right Treatment

Your orthodontist can help determine which treatment is right for you. During your consultation, your orthodontist will assess your teeth to see if you’re a good candidate for treatment. It is vital to consider your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences when choosing the right treatment.

Finding the Right Orthodontist

Look for an orthodontist who specialises in adult orthodontics and has treated hundreds if not thousands of patients. Check online reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family members. Schedule a consultation to meet with the orthodontist and discuss your treatment options.

Cost-Effective Teeth Straightening

We want orthodontic treatment to be within reach of all of our patients and to help you budget, we offer the option of 0% finance for 12 months or 9.9% over five years*.

Taking the First Step

Contact us to schedule a consultation and determine if braces are right for you. Take the first step towards a straighter, healthier smile and improved oral health. Don’t let concerns about age or cost hold you back from achieving the smile you have always wanted.