When most people think about braces they picture a pre-teen with a mouth full of metal and wire, but it’s time to update that image. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, 27% of all orthodontic patients in the US and Canada are adults. And, while metal braces may be the best option to address orthodontic issues, there are more treatment choices available today than ever before. Here are 8 facts that you should know about adult orthodontics.
1. There is No Age Limit
People of all ages can benefit from braces, especially adults. Some chose to address orthodontic issues because they didn’t have access to this care when they were younger. Others do so to have a great smile for their career or a special event, such as marriage. Also, teeth can shift over time and this situation can be exacerbated by missing teeth or other dental issues. Health issues, such as sleep apnea and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) can be better managed through orthodontic care. Regardless of the reason, more and more adults aged 21 to 80+ are choosing to get braces.
2. There is no Pain
Orthodontics is not painful, regardless of your age. Yes, there will be some discomfort as first but it quickly fades. Today’s braces were developed using technologies to reduce discomfort as well as treatment time.
3. There is an Expert
Some general dentists now offer braces and Invisilign, but this is rarely the best option. Dentists focus on the teeth whereas orthodontists are educated and trained to consider teeth realignment from all perspectives, including the jaw, your bite and the relationship between the upper and lower teeth. Orthodontists use special technologies to map the movements of each tooth to assure that the outcome is both aesthetically pleasing and medically sound.
4. Orthodontic Care is Not as Expensive as you Think
Some people avoid orthodontic care due to an assumption that it will be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. At DeDomenico Orthodontics, we accept most insurance plans and accept payments directly from the insurance companies. For those with or without insurance, we work with our patients to develop monthly payment plans to assure you get the care you need. In addition, we offer a free virtual consultation to get things started.
5. It Doesn’t Take Years to get a Great Smile
Orthodontic technologies have come a long way since you were a child, which means that the treatment time is vastly reduced. What used to take 3 to 4 years now takes between 12 to 24 months, with the same great result.
6. You Can Look Great While Wearing Braces
Today’s braces are less bulky and much lighter than those you might remember seeing as a child and most are nearly invisible. There are options that go on the back of your teeth and others that are easy to remove for teeth cleaning, eating, or other times that you choose. You don’t have to put off looking great while you work towards a beautiful smile.
7. Those Weird Myths aren’t True
Several odd myths have evolved around wearing braces and we can guarantee that none of them are true. When you have braces you will not:
- Lock braces with someone else while kissing
- Set off metal detectors
- Interfere with radio signals
- Become a human magnet
In addition, you can continue to play sports and musical instruments while wearing braces, though we don’t recommend doing these activities at the same time.
8. Straight Teeth has many Benefits
Having a great smile and well-aligned teeth is about more than looking good. A great smile often results in higher self-esteem and increased confidence. Straight teeth can address mild to moderate sleep apnea and reduce or eliminate the pain from TMJ. With all of these benefits, it makes sense to receive orthodontic treatments regardless of your age.
At DeDomenico Orthodontics, we treat both adults and children and, with our three convenient locations in Lutz, Tampa and Brooksville, we are make it as easy as possible for you to come into the office for appointments. You can go online to utilize our free virtual consultation resource or call us at (813)961-1313.
Our commitment it so keep our patients and are staff as safe as possible during this epidemic and so our practice follows the infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Please don’t let the fear of COVID keep you from receiving the care you need.
