Advanced Treatment With Braces For Adults
Many people incorrectly assume that braces are something that only children and teens get when it comes to correcting issues that they’re experiencing with their smiles. In reality, the reverse is true – a significant number of patients are actually adults because orthodontic issues can arise and be corrected at any age. No one is too old for orthodontic treatment! In fact, 1 in every 5 patients in orthodontic treatment is an adult. The age you are when you decide to transform your smile is the perfect age to begin treatment.
The most obvious of those problems have to do with crooked teeth, but braces are worth it for adults for a myriad of other reasons, too. Not only can they help correct things like a bad bite, but they also prevent the development of health issues that stem from smile misalignments.
Of course, this is all before you even get into the cosmetic benefits that come with braces. This, coupled with the fact that you’ll have far more confidence in your smile after treatment, means that adult braces are more than worth the investment for most people. You’re also far more likely to wear your retainer after treatment (if necessary) as an adult than you are as a child, meaning that the benefits you see will last a lifetime.
Our experienced orthodontists will explain every step of the process in as much detail as you’d like. It’s our goal to provide you with the knowledge you need to make the best decision for your smile and your health!
Your Lifestyle With Braces
Foods To Avoid
In the majority of situations, you will likely find that getting braces as an adult does not change your diet in any major way. However, there are certain foods that you should probably avoid for the duration of your treatment because they could damage the brackets and the wires, which could ultimately hinder your progress. Here are some examples of foods to avoid when wearing braces:
- Chewy foods — bagels, hard bread rolls, Twizzlers
- Crunchy foods — popcorn, ice, dried fruits, hard chips
- Sticky foods — caramel, gum, Starburst
- Hard foods — nuts, Jolly Ranchers, hard pizza crusts, Nerds
- Foods that require biting — corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Caring For Your Braces
Due to having more areas for plaque to accumulate in your mouth, frequent brushing is highly recommended. With braces, food can get caught much more easily, allowing bacteria to build up and flourish. That is why we highly recommend brushing your teeth and flossing at least twice a day.
How Long Will I Need Braces?
On average, adult orthodontics may be completed within 15-18 months. It’s important to note that your treatment may be shorter or longer than average, depending on your unique case. During your free consultation, your experienced orthodontist will give you an estimated length of treatment.
