At times, patients looking into adult orthodontics feel overwhelmed because they never had the chance to get braces when they were younger. Some also get frustrated thinking braces are just for kids and tell themselves, “I’m too old for this.” We encourage you to reset that thinking and take this with you:
“Braces and clear aligners have no age restrictions.”
Great! Now you know you still have the opportunity to straighten your teeth. If you have crooked teeth or an uneven bite but aren’t sure what orthodontics can do for you, here are a few of the benefits:
- Straight teeth are easier to clean, which supports better oral hygiene and lowers your risk of tooth decay, cavities and gum (periodontal) disease.
- A malocclusion is a bite where the teeth don’t meet the way they should. An improper bite can wear teeth unevenly, putting more friction on some areas than others. Over time, that wear can weaken or chip teeth and lead to more involved dental work later.
- Some severe overbite or underbite problems are also tied to a facial imbalance that can affect your profile.
- Correcting a bad bite can make chewing more efficient and, in some cases, help with certain speech issues. Orthodontics can also play a supporting role in some treatment plans for sleep apnea, though it isn’t a stand-alone fix.
In short, aligning your teeth has real benefits for kids, teens and adults. Stay with us a little longer, and this article will help you talk with your orthodontist about what it takes to get a beautiful, healthy smile.
What Is the Best Age for Orthodontic Treatment?
It’s common for people to assume braces are only for teenagers. However, adults benefit from orthodontic treatment too. So, what is the best age for orthodontic treatment? According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), children should have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7.
At that age, an orthodontist can spot potential issues early and provide preventive care when it’s needed. Early interceptive treatment is a smart approach for children with developing teeth because it can head off bigger problems that might need more invasive treatment later.
At this stage, an orthodontist can pave the way for simpler, less demanding treatment in early adolescence. For instance, a specialist may use functional appliances like a palatal expander to widen the upper jaw or guide how teeth come in.
Only an orthodontist can say what the best age for treatment is for a specific person, but the earlier the first visit, the clearer the picture of whether treatment is needed and when it should start.
So, the ideal age for braces or other orthodontic treatment depends on each person’s needs. And whatever your age, you can start by consulting with Dr. Balhoff.
Can Adults Get Braces?
Are you considering getting braces as an adult? Then this is your lucky day. Whether you’re in your thirties, forties or fifties, you can get braces or clear aligners once you meet one important and very achievable requirement, and that’s treating any cavities and getting a periodontal (gum) checkup.
Unfortunately, the chances of developing periodontal disease increase as we age, but don’t be discouraged by the statistics. Early stages of gum disease are treatable, and you can join the growing number of adults improving their oral health and their smile with orthodontic treatment.
Even better, there are several options to fit your needs and preferences, including traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, lingual braces and Invisalign.
Is Periodontal Disease a Problem for Getting Braces?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can get in the way of adult orthodontic treatment. But before jumping to conclusions, know that early gum disease is treatable. It usually starts as gingivitis, a milder stage with symptoms that are easy to spot. Gingivitis symptoms include:
- Swollen, red or puffy gums that are tender to the touch
- Slight bleeding from the gums, especially when brushing
- Episodes of bad breath
- In some cases, receding gums
If you notice some or all of these symptoms, talk to your dentist. The fix often involves better brushing and flossing technique and more consistent daily hygiene habits.
Take gingivitis seriously, because it can develop into periodontal disease, which is classified by how much damage it does to the structures that support your teeth.
That matters because periodontal disease causes bone loss and affects gum health, and both are needed to support the teeth during orthodontic treatment. If gum disease has weakened the bone, teeth may not move the way they should during treatment, which can lead to bite problems or further damage.
Periodontal disease has also been linked to other health problems, including heart disease, which is one more reason to address it before starting orthodontic treatment. Check in with your dentist before getting braces so they can assess your gum health and recommend any care you need first.
How Long Do Braces Take To Straighten Teeth?
Each tooth is held in place by the periodontal ligament, a thin band of fibrous tissue between the tooth and the surrounding bone. It keeps the tooth firm while allowing a little flexibility, and it’s what lets orthodontic treatment move teeth gradually.
In younger patients, this tissue and the surrounding bone adapt more quickly, which can help treatment move along a bit faster.
Moving teeth is absolutely possible as we age, but it can take a little longer. How much longer depends on how your body responds and how severe your bite problem is, in other words how far your teeth need to move safely.
Many patients wear braces for 12 to 24 months, but it would be irresponsible for any orthodontist to promise a timeline without a thorough evaluation of your case. Our guide to orthodontic treatment length covers the factors in more detail.
What Are the Teeth Straightening Options for Adults?
Adults have plenty of options to choose from, which should be encouraging. If you’d like your treatment to go unnoticed, you might be a candidate for Invisalign, clear ceramic braces or lingual braces.
Some severe bite cases may call for traditional metal braces. Either way, Dr. Balhoff will walk you through the treatments that fit your needs best. Here’s a quick look at each one.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common type and treat everything from crooked and misaligned teeth to bad bites. They won’t go unnoticed, but traditional metal braces are often the best fit for severe malocclusion.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces use a small built-in clip to hold the archwire instead of elastic ties. Elastic ties can be uncomfortable and harder to keep clean, and the clip design helps with both control and comfort.
Because the clip holds the archwire with less friction, teeth can move more easily, which may mean fewer adjustments and a smoother treatment experience. At Balhoff Orthodontics, both our metal and clear ceramic braces use self-ligating brackets.
Clear Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work like traditional braces, but the brackets are made of a tooth-colored ceramic that blends in with your natural teeth. Clear ceramic braces are a great choice when discretion matters, though ceramic brackets are a bit less sturdy than metal and can chip if you’re not careful with hard foods.
Lingual Braces
If you want the most hidden option, lingual braces are hard to beat. They attach to the back of your teeth, so they’re invisible from the front. However, keeping your teeth clean with lingual braces is more challenging, which can raise the risk of tooth decay or gingivitis in adults.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a popular choice for adults who want discreet, comfortable and removable treatment. They work best for mild to moderate alignment issues and need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day to stay on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit for braces?
No. Braces and clear aligners have no age restrictions. What matters is having healthy teeth and gums, so any cavities or gum disease should be treated before you start.
What is the best teeth straightening option for adults?
It depends on your bite and your goals. Clear aligners and clear ceramic braces are popular for discretion, while metal braces handle the most complex corrections. Dr. Balhoff will recommend the option that fits your case at your consultation.
Can I get braces if I have gum disease?
Not until it’s under control. Early gum disease is treatable, and once your dentist confirms your gums are healthy, orthodontic treatment can move forward.
Make the Best Decision for Your Smile
There’s no better moment than now to start. Candidacy for braces or clear aligners has nothing to do with age and everything to do with stable oral health, which is attainable with the right care. Schedule a free consultation with Balhoff Orthodontics in Lafayette and make a healthy, beautiful smile a reality you feel proud of.