If you’re like most people, the first thing you think about when you hear the term “orthodontics” is something related to a teenager wearing metal braces. While it’s true that many of the patients we see here at About Faces and Braces are teens, the benefits of orthodontics apply to any age! In fact, about 1 in every 5 current orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. If you’ve been unhappy with how your teeth look or function, you may be wondering “am I too old for braces?” We’re here to tell you that orthodontic treatment can have you achieve a healthier, straighter smile, no matter your age.
Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice offer a variety of orthodontic treatment options to correct crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw positioning, and more. You’re never too old to improve your oral health! To learn more about what orthodontics really is and how it can give you the smile you’ve always wanted, keep reading below.
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialty that falls under the umbrella of dentistry. An orthodontist is a dentist who has also received additional education and training to identify and correct bite abnormalities. This gives them the skill and expertise necessary to successfully straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaws, and improve the overall function of your mouth.
Generally speaking, orthodontists’ main focus is on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities. When these kinds of issues are left untreated, they can get worse over time. The wear and tear on the teeth, gum tissue and bone may cause pain in the face and neck, headaches, and even trouble chewing or speaking. The experienced team here at About Faces and Braces will be able to diagnose and treat these issues, improving both the function and appearance of your smile!
Why more adults are choosing orthodontic treatment
As we get older, we often begin to understand a bit more about the many ways that oral health is connected to total body health. For some people, this knowledge leads them to take action by pursuing dental or orthodontic treatment that will help them to better care for their teeth and gums.
We also see many adult patients who received some orthodontic treatment earlier in life that was never completed. Touch-up treatment is common as well. Teeth that were straightened when you were younger can shift over time due to age, genetics, or improper retainer use. In these cases, we can monitor your teeth, provide new retainers, or retreat with braces or aligners.
Some adults have never had treatment before and are simply looking to improve the cosmetic appearance of their smile. The resulting boost in confidence and self-esteem can positively impact many areas of a person’s life, both professionally and personally.
Orthodontic options for adult patients
Regardless of your reason for seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, you have more options than ever before! Our expert team is happy to offer the following treatments for a total smile makeover.
Metal Braces
Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable today than ever before. Traditional braces are made of metal brackets and wires with connecting rubber bands, which apply a gentle pressure that gradually moves your teeth into alignment. This treatment method has proven to be reliable and effective for decades, and nowadays metal braces are much more comfortable than they used to be!
Clear Braces
Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are similar to traditional metal braces in that they use brackets and metal wires that adjust your teeth over time to their designated positions. However, these braces are exceptionally inconspicuous because the brackets are basically the same color as your teeth!
Clear braces are ideal for older teenagers and adult patients who are concerned with the cosmetic appearance of their smile but still desire to go the more traditional bracket-and-wire route. For you, this means fewer appointments and less friction on your tooth.
Invisalign clear aligner therapy
The Invisalign system consists of clear, removable aligners customized to fit comfortably over your teeth. Like braces, the aligners gently guide your teeth into the desired positions. To accomplish this, you’ll need to wear the aligners 20 to 22 hours per day throughout the course of treatment, and replace them every 1 to 2 weeks for the next aligner in the system.
Invisalign provides patients a bit more freedom and flexibility that traditional braces just can’t beat! There are no food restrictions since you remove your aligners when eating or drinking. They also make it easier to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy since you don’t have to work around wires and brackets and can simply brush and floss the way you normally would.
Get the smile you deserve with About Faces and Braces
Clear aligners therapy with Invisalign can be a great option for many patients here in Clarksville, but they aren’t right for every smile. That’s why it’s so important to choose experienced orthodontists like Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice!
There’s no “one size fits all” treatment option when you choose About Faces and Braces. You can trust that our expert doctors will only recommend the best treatment option for your specific needs. Our team will build a personalized treatment plan for you based on your unique smile, lifestyle, and goals to ensure you have a positive orthodontic experience and superior results!
Our talented team is committed to providing the latest in orthodontic techniques and technology for patients of all ages in Springfield, Clarksville, Nashville, and the surrounding communities. Our top priority is to provide you with a rewarding and stress-free journey from start to finish. We work hard to provide a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. You’re not just another face here, you’re family!
You’re never too old for braces, and the smile you’ve always wanted! Take the first step today by calling us to schedule your FREE initial consultation.