Consulting an orthodontist for braces is a step many adults are now taking with great results. Gone are the days when braces were just for kids and teenagers. The American Association of Orthodontists reports that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21, underscoring a significant shift towards adults embracing orthodontic care.
At Central Texas Orthodontics, we offer braces for adults in Austin, TX as a key solution for those looking to enhance their smiles and improve their quality of life.
Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment with Braces
Adults opt for braces for several compelling reasons, including:
To improve oral health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
To complete or maintain their teen alignment. Many adults are completing or revising orthodontic treatments they began but never finished as teenagers.
To enhance dental function. Misaligned teeth can contribute to several functional problems, including difficulties in chewing and abnormal wear. By correcting bite issues, braces help improve jaw alignment and function, which can alleviate TMD symptoms.
To boost confidence. For many adults, achieving the smile they’ve always wanted or improving their dental aesthetics can lead to increased confidence in social and professional settings.
To save dental costs in the long run. By preventing complex dental issues that might require costly treatments in the future, braces can be a financially wise choice for maintaining oral health.
To avoid lifestyle disruptions. Today, adults can choose from several types of braces that are not only effective but also align with their personal and professional image.
At Central Texas Orthodontics, we are committed to providing personalized care that respects your time and lifestyle while delivering the best results for your dental health and aesthetic desires.
The difference between adult orthodontics and orthodontics for children and teens:
The main difference between treating adults and children or teens is that the jawbones of younger patients are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which may change your orthodontic treatment options.
Other differences include:
- Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease.
- Worn or missing teeth — Over time teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care.
- Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen — Many adults received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but never completed their treatment. As an adult, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.
Types of Braces Available for Adults
Choosing the right type of braces as an adult can feel overwhelming, but Central Texas Orthodontics offers a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the types of braces available and how they can cater to your lifestyle and orthodontic requirements:
Metal Braces
These are the traditional braces most people think of when they consider orthodontic treatment. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces are highly effective at correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues. Modern metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever, and you can customize them with colored bands to add a bit of fun to your treatment.
Pros:
- Highly effective for a wide range of orthodontic corrections.
- Durable and reliable.
- Offers customization with colored bands for a personalized touch.
Cons:
- More noticeable than other types of braces.
- Can cause discomfort initially and after adjustments.
Ceramic Braces
Often chosen for their cosmetic appeal, ceramic braces blend in with the color of your teeth, making them less noticeable than metal braces. They function in much the same way as metal braces but use ceramic brackets that are either clear or tooth-colored. While they offer aesthetic benefits, they require more attentive care to avoid staining and are slightly more fragile.
Pros:
- Less noticeable than metal braces, blending in with the natural color of your teeth.
- Provide all the benefits of traditional braces without the aesthetic concern.
Cons:
- More fragile than metal braces, and can break more easily.
- Require diligent maintenance to avoid staining.
Lingual Braces
For maximum discretion, lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth, hiding them from view. They are custom-made to fit the unique contour of your teeth, making them a comfortable and virtually invisible option. Lingual braces are ideal for adults concerned about the visibility of their orthodontic treatment in professional or social settings.
Pros:
- Virtually invisible as they are placed on the back side of the teeth.
- Custom-fit to each tooth, enhancing comfort.
Cons:
- Can be more difficult to clean.
- May affect speech initially and take time to get used to.
Self-Ligating Braces
These braces use a specialized clip in place of elastics to help the archwire guide teeth into place. The clip helps reduce the amount of pressure being placed on the tooth and requires fewer adjustments because there are no elastics to replace. Self-ligating braces can be either metal or ceramic and offer a faster treatment time with more comfort.
Pros:
- Require fewer dental visits for adjustments because they do not use elastics.
- Often provide shorter treatment times and greater comfort.
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than traditional braces.
- Still visible, although less so if ceramic self-ligating braces are chosen.
Each type of braces has its strengths, and the right choice for you will depend on several factors including the complexity of your case, your lifestyle, personal preferences, and your aesthetic concerns.
Caring for Your Braces
Maintaining your braces and practicing good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is crucial for achieving optimal results. Here’s how you can care for your braces effectively:
Brushing and Flossing
- Brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush at an angle to effectively clean around the brackets and along the gum line.
- Utilize floss threaders or special orthodontic floss to navigate around the wires and clean between the teeth.
Eating Habits
- Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage braces, like popcorn, nuts, and hard candies.
- Cut fruits and vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Opt for softer foods that are easier to chew and less likely to cause damage.
Protecting Your Braces
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities to protect your braces and mouth from impacts.
- Consult your orthodontist for recommendations on the best types of mouthguards for braces.
Immediate Action for Breakages
- Contact Central Texas Orthodontics immediately if you experience any issues such as loose brackets or broken wires.
- Prompt repairs can prevent treatment delays and reduce discomfort.
Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings
Continue visiting your dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups every six months. Make sure to also follow any additional recommendations from your dentist to ensure optimal oral health during orthodontic treatment.
Dealing with Discomfort
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort following adjustments.
- Apply orthodontic wax to brackets or wires that are causing irritation inside the mouth.
Following these guidelines will help ensure that your orthodontic treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions we receive about Invisalign treatment at Central Texas Orthodontics:
- Will braces interfere with my daily life as an adult?
Most adults find that braces do not significantly interfere with their daily activities. While there may be a short adjustment period for speaking and eating, most patients adapt quickly. We offer a variety of braces options that can be tailored to meet your professional and social needs.
- How often will I need to visit the orthodontist during treatment?
Typically, you’ll need to visit our office every 4 to 6 weeks for adjustments. These visits are crucial to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.
- Are there less visible options available for adult braces?
Yes, we offer several discreet orthodontic solutions, such as ceramic braces and lingual braces, which are less noticeable but equally effective as traditional metal braces.
- Can I still play sports or instruments with braces?
Absolutely. We recommend wearing a mouthguard when playing contact sports to protect your braces and teeth. For wind instruments, it may take some adjustment, but many musicians are able to play comfortably with braces.
- What is the cost of adult braces, and are payment plans available?
The cost of braces can vary depending on the type and duration of treatment. We strive to make orthodontic care accessible and offer various payment plans to fit your budget. Our office also accepts most major insurance plans, which can help cover a portion of the costs.
- How do I handle emergencies, like broken braces, outside office hours?
We provide instructions on how to deal with minor emergencies at home, such as applying orthodontic wax to a protruding wire. For more urgent issues, we have an on-call service available to help you outside regular office hours.
- What happens if I move during my treatment?
If you need to move during your treatment, we can help you find a qualified orthodontist in your new location and transfer your treatment records to ensure a seamless continuation of your care.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Explore the benefits of braces for adults in Austin, TX. Contact Central Texas Orthodontics today to schedule your initial consultation. We understand the demands of a busy schedule and are committed to making each visit as convenient and efficient as possible.
