Getting braces is a right of passage from an awkward middle schooler to high schooler. Orthodontists do their best to make putting painful metal in your mouth exciting. They have fish tanks and TV screens hanging from the ceiling for entertainment. They even let the kids pick their rubber band colors. Some parents will allow their kids to eat ice cream for dinner the first day they get braces.
It’s exciting, right?
But what happens if you skipped that stage in your life? The atmosphere of many orthodontist offices is tailored toward a younger audience.
So, is there an age limit to getting braces?
The simple answer is: no.
At Cobblestone, we strive to adhere to all ages so that you can get the best care for your teeth!
Average Age For Braces
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit their orthodontist for a screening at age 7. The average age for people to get braces is between 8 and 14. It is recommended that people get braces at an early age so we can correct any potentially harmful conditions or habits such as grinding teeth and trouble breathing due to nasal passages.
Despite the average age for braces being so early, many adults still get braces. It’s not that uncommon. The number of adult orthodontic patients increased 14 percent from 2010 to 2012.
However, there are a couple of things that adults should be aware of before committing to braces.
Credentials for Adult Braces & Timeline
As an adult getting fitted for braces, you need to have a healthy jaw and permanent teeth. This avoids problems such as jaw issues, gum disease, or tooth decay.
Many factors impact the length of time someone has to wear braces, and age is a minor one.
The bone structure of adults versus a teenager can vary. Due to this, adults may have to wear braces longer than an adolescent typically would, but it varies from case to case. It mainly depends on the alignment of your teeth and other underlying factors.
The good news is that braces are just as effective for people in all stages of life.
Most of the time, how long you wear your braces depends on how well you follow orthodontic instructions. Dental hygiene and wearing your rubber bands are imperative. Some adults are wary of getting braces because they are uncertain of how it will look and do not want to change their lifestyle or diet.
It’s true: you will have to avoid certain foods. However, dental hygiene is not that different when you have braces. You still need to floss and brush your teeth just like you normally would.
When you choose Cobblestone, we will go over the specifics of dental care habits to practice and what foods to avoid. You’re never alone in this process. We are here to help you every step of the way!
The Process
The first step to getting braces as an adult is setting up a consultation appointment. During this appointment, one of our expert orthodontists will examine your teeth. They may take X-rays to accurately identify any problems.
At this consultation, feel free to ask questions or voice any concerns you have. This is a time for you to get all the information you need to move forward in the process confidently.
At this appointment, you will receive an estimated cost for your braces, a timeline for how long you will need to wear them, and the different treatment options available to you.
The process is simple, and it shouldn’t be something that you have to worry about. Braces are for people of all ages because everyone deserves to be happy with their smile.
Braces vs. Invisalign
At Cobblestone, we offer a couple of different services so you can be comfortable and confident on your journey to a brighter smile!
We offer traditional metal braces, which consist of wires and brackets. It sounds more intimidating than it actually is. While braces are uncomfortable at first, you will adjust to them, and they will become your temporary new normal.
The average amount of time people wear them is two years, but it depends on a variety of things such as tooth alignment. Braces treat anything from mild to severe orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, misalignment, overbites, and much more.
If the thought of braces is out of the question for you, we also offer an alternative to braces: Invisalign. Invisalign treats the same orthodontic issues that braces do. It consists of several clear plastic retainers that are removable. They gradually shift your teeth. Eligibility for this method is a case-by-case process. Your orthodontist will talk you through your options at your consultation appointment.
Both of these methods produce wonderful results and happy smiles of all ages!
Cobblestone Park Family Dentistry Cares
Here at Cobblestone, we want to make sure you know the proper ways to keep your smile happy and healthy. Braces and our other alternative methods enhance the joy behind your smile no matter what age you are!
To learn more about the teeth straightening options we offer, including Invisalign, please schedule an appointment with Cobblestone Park Family Dental. Contact us by calling (405) 603-8520 today.