It’s common to have dental issues as an adult. Perhaps your bite is out of alignment, or your smile isn’t as straight as you would like. But you may have concerns because you’re not a teen anymore. Maybe you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or even older. You may be concerned that the ability to straighten your teeth has passed you by. Are you too old to get adult orthodontics? Not at all. Read on to learn more about what to expect as an adult patient.

Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment for adults is different than it is for teens, but still very much possible. The biggest issue is that adults are fully grown, and this applies to the mouth as well. The bones in adult teeth are dense and mature, making teeth harder to move. In addition, as people get older, they tend to have fillings, worn teeth, and missing teeth. They may smoke, grind their teeth, or use certain medications, all of which can affect treatment. Orthodontic treatment for adults is a little bit more complicated. It can take longer to move the teeth into position, as it may require changes to the facial bones, jaw bones, and soft tissue. Plus, the orthodontist will need to choose the right treatment option for your mouth. There are many options, such as Invisalign, metal braces, gold braces, and clear ceramic braces. Your orthodontist will assess your smile by taking digital X-rays of your mouth at your first visit. This will help the orthodontist choose the right option based on your unique situation.

How Old is Too Old for Braces?

You may think braces are for teens and your time has passed. How old is too old for braces? There is no age limit. Whether you’re 30, 50, or maybe even 80 years old, you can seek adult orthodontics. Your age does not matter. Your orthodontist will create a customized treatment plan based on your needs. Many factors go into this plan, but age is not one of them. That’s because orthodontic treatment can be very successful for adults. With this in mind, it’s never too late to fix your smile. If it’s something you’ve always wanted to do, whether you’re a teen or an adult, make an appointment with an orthodontist today.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment for adults comes with the following benefits:

• Better-looking smile
• Improved function of teeth (biting and chewing)
• Easier-to-clean teeth
• Easier to speak
• Less abnormal wearing of tooth enamel
• Helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease
• Helps keeps teeth intact
• Increased self-esteem

Contact Us Today

Orthodontic treatment for adults can be effective at any age. Whether you’re 8 or 80 years old, you can benefit from straighter teeth. A nicer smile can be life-changing, so don’t delay. Contact Urban Orthodontics to schedule your appointment today!