When adults start wearing braces, there are many questions that they will ask. Are adult braces necessary? Should I be embarrassed about them? Do they hurt? Are there good candidates for adult braces?
The answers to these questions may vary depending on your needs and desires, which is why it is vital to have a realistic idea of what you are getting yourself into and the results you can expect.
Is it Painful to Get Braces as an Adult?
Absolutely not! Braces are no more painful than traditional metal brackets, and they will not affect the pain you experience every day. You might notice a small amount of discomfort when your teeth begin moving into place, but this should only last a few days until the braces have adequately adjusted to your mouth.
Is it Expensive to Get Braces as an Adult?
The cost of getting braces will be based on the extent of your orthodontic needs, but if you have decent dental insurance, it should not be too expensive. Invisalign trays are a good option for adults because there is a fixed price and you do not have to pay any extra costs other than the monthly fees for wearing them.
Types of Braces for Adults
There are several different types of braces used on adult patients, depending on their needs.
Invisalign is a series of clear aligners custom-made for each patient, and provides a sanitary alternative to traditional metal braces.
Fixed braces use brackets bonded directly onto the teeth, which provides an even bite and makes cleaning easier by allowing the dentist access to all surfaces of the teeth.
Traditional metal braces are removable and have brackets bonded on top of the teeth. They can be adjusted more easily than fixed braces, but they are easier to clean with toothpaste since no gum line or brackets are involved.
Each patient has different options based on their financial situation, oral health, and desired results. In most cases, a dentist from our practice will be able to explain which type would be best suited for your needs.
Applying Braces for Adults
The application process involves taking impressions of your mouth, which are then sent to a lab where each brace is custom fit for your needs. They will not fit immediately, because the plastic braces must first be heated and then molded to the shape of your mouth. This fitting process can take two weeks or more, depending on how busy the lab is at that time, but you will receive a temporary set while yours are being made for future use.
Before getting braces, there are several things you need to do to prepare for this important decision.
- You should have good oral hygiene, meaning that you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once every 24 hours.
- There must be no decay or wobbly teeth on the surface of your mouth
- Your gums should not bleed when being brushed
- You should have enough room in your mouth to wear braces, which means that you should not have any broken or missing teeth.
- If you wear removable retainers, you must bring them with you the first time that the orthodontist measures your mouth for braces.
- You must make regular trips for adjustments, which is usually every 4-8 weeks.
How Long Do Braces Take?
The average time needed to apply braces is between 12 and 30 months, depending on each patient’s needs and the severity of their diagnosis. Many factors affect this timeframe, including your oral health and the complexity of your case.
Contact Newbury Dental today and schedule your consultation to learn more information about adult braces!