Many adults share memories of awkward teenage years filled with braces and retainers. But not everyone had their teeth straightened as a child. If you are an adult with a crooked smile, you might be wondering if it’s too late for you. Can adults get their teeth straightened just as easily as teens can?
Can Adults Get Their Teeth Straightened?
Yes! In fact, it is easier for you as an adult to get your teeth straightened. Our dentist in Palm Springs uses advancements in orthodontic technology to offer quick and stress-free straightening options. Let’s take a look at some braces that work well with your adult life.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are an alignment option that can be hidden from sight. They are positioned behind the teeth, making them impossible to see from the front. Some adults complain that lingual braces are uncomfortable, but the ability to straighten your teeth undetected is appealing. It is up to you to decide whether this is a good option for you.
Invisalign
Easily the most popular option for adult tooth straightening, Invisalign brings completely invisible straightening to your teeth. There is a slim, transparent mold that you place over your teeth during the day, which will straighten them over time. You can remove your Invisalign braces to clean them and brush your teeth.
When you are fitted for Invisalign, you are given a dental straightening kit that you can use yourself. You’ll enjoy fewer dental visits as you can manage these braces on your own.
Ceramic Braces
Clear ceramic braces offer an almost-invisible option for teeth straightening. They are clear or tooth-colored braces that fit like a retainer in your mouth. Some of the silver wire pieces may be visible, but overall these braces add natural colors to your mouth to make them less detectable. You can wear them with ease and get them changed out frequently so that they remain clean.
Metal Braces
Although they are quite visible on your teeth, metal braces are a cheap and safe option for alignment. The most tried and true orthodontic treatment, metal braces consist of brackets on each tooth that slowly straighten your teeth. If you are looking for a traditional solution or you want something on a budget, you can consider this orthodontic treatment with your choice of color: metal or clear.
Why Should Adults Get Braces?
It is more than possible for adults to correct crooked teeth; it can even be a medical necessity. There are many reasons why adults who are struggling with their dental health should consider teeth straightening:
Prevent Medical Issues
Misalignment isn’t just visually unappealing; it is also unhealthy. Medical issues like sleep apnea, gum infection, and inflammation can be caused by crooked teeth. Straightening these teeth can keep your mouth from getting overcrowded, preventing issues of infection or swelling.
Find More Effective Treatment
Adults with braces often see better and longer-lasting results than teenagers with braces. This is because children are not always motivated to follow their straightening regimen. As an adult, you will find that you start to care more about your oral health and it might be easier for you to follow a treatment plan once you are older.
Improve Your Confidence
Still, there is no denying that a straighter smile can improve your self-esteem. After dealing with crooked or misaligned teeth, you will be happy with the way your smile looks in the mirror. This will encourage you to feel better about yourself!
Get Adult Orthodontic Treatment Today
Braces are traditionally known to be worn by children and teenagers. However, adults have plenty of options when it comes to correcting misalignments in the teeth. From Invisalign to traditional metal braces, comfortable and discreet options exist so you can straighten your teeth with ease. Reach out to our orthodontist in Palm Springs to find out more about the best orthodontic options for you!