Orthodontic treatment is not just about creating a straighter smile; it is a long-term investment in your health and well-being that can have life-changing benefits in both your personal and professional life. Wonky and misaligned teeth can not only feel unsightly but are also more difficult to clean, therefore increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Straight teeth function better, and by correcting bite issues, you can make chewing more comfortable and improve the clarity of your speech, helping to reduce insecurities.
Thanks to modern treatment options today, adults can have discreet braces that are ceramic or almost invisible options like Invisalign, which make it possible for professional adults to undergo treatment without drawing attention to themselves.
Why More Adults are Choosing Orthodontics Later in Life
Braces were always thought of as a treatment for children; it wasn’t something adults had, but there is less stigma attached to adult braces today. People are far more aware of the importance of oral health, and faster and more modern techniques offer quicker results and are less painful than old-fashioned braces.
Our modern world has made us more conscious about our appearances, and with most people on some form of social media, it is not just a posed photo that we see ourselves in. Having a straighter smile boosts self-esteem and confidence, in both social and professional settings, and feeling confident in your appearance helps you better deal with meetings, photos and social events.
Many adults today are happy to invest in themselves, especially if they couldn’t afford to address dental issues when they were younger, and as the celebrities who normalise adult orthodontics have shown us, it’s never too late to fix age-old dental issues!
Discreet Options: Ceramic Braces and Lingual Braces Explained
Ceramic braces are tooth-coloured or clear brackets that are placed on the outer, or front surface of the teeth. They work similarly to traditional braces but are more aesthetic than metal braces. Lingual braces are the opposite, as they are placed on the inside, or back surface of the teeth, making them completely invisible.
The main difference between the two types of braces is their placement, and lingual braces offer superior discretion for those who prioritise aesthetics, but they can also cost more, can potentially cause tongue irritation and cause initial speech issues like lisps. Ceramic braces are generally cheaper and more comfortable, but can cause staining and are more prone to breaking.
Your orthodontist at Goldfields can help you decide which option is best suited to your needs and lifestyle.
How Long Does Adult Orthodontic Treatment Take?
When you discuss your treatment with your orthodontist at Goldfields, they will help you to decide the best form of treatment and be able to give you an idea of the timeline, as this will differ from patient to patient depending on the complexity of the problem.
Most adult braces take between 12 and 36 months, with most cases usually taking around 18-24 months. Some mild cases like front teeth, can be remedied in as little as 3-6 months.
Managing Oral Hygiene With Braces
Oral hygiene is extremely important with braces because the brackets and wires can trap food and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease and decalcification.
Diligent, frequent cleaning with tools like interdental brushes and floss threaders, alongside regular brushing after meals and before bed, and finishing with a fluoride mouthwash will help prevent plaque build-up, decay and staining. It is also important to avoid hard, sticky foods that may damage braces.