4 Things Adults with Braces Should Keep in Mind

Braces are often thought of as a rite of passage for most teenagers – so if your dentist has informed you as an adult that you might benefit from a second round of orthodontic treatment, you may be feeling a little puzzled, or even disheartened. However, rest assured, it’s perfectly normal for adults and older patients to need braces again; and believe it or not, the process is often easier if you know what to expect! Here are four things you should keep in mind if you’re about to get braces again as an adult.

1. Needing Braces a Second Time Isn’t a Failure on Your Part

Many adult patients who need braces are often undergoing treatment a second time due to orthodontic relapse, which means their teeth have reverted back to their original, incorrect positions. While this can occur from not wearing your retainer after treatment, it also simply occurs over time for a wide variety of reasons, including bruxism, natural wear and tear, issues like decay or gum disease, or even physical trauma. Don’t feel discouraged if you need braces again; teeth are stubborn, and you can’t always control how they move. 

2. You’ve Got More Options to Choose From

When you’re finally going to get your braces, you might be expecting the same metal brackets and wires you had in the past or that you’re used to seeing. The truth is, braces have come a long way, even making impressive jumps in recent years, and now there are several varieties and types of braces that are more comfortable and natural-looking while remaining just as effective. Clear aligners and ceramic braces are two great examples of this. 

3. It Will Be Much More Affordable

These days, the cost of braces tends to be much more affordable than treatment plans of the past. Many dental insurance plans have built-in provisions for orthodontic treatment, not to mention, there are also a variety of flexible payment plan options. It’s also worth realizing that braces are cost-effective in the sense that they can prevent future, costly problems from occurring; think of them as a wise investment in your future oral health.

4. You’re Working Toward Improved Dental Health

When you have misalignment issues with your teeth, you may not notice that there are other problems present. However, crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and other orthodontic issues can greatly impact your oral functionality, impeding your ability to eat your favorite foods, speak clearly, or take adequate care of your smile. By improving your smile with braces, you’re ensuring that your dental health is in tip-top shape moving forward. This is crucial as you grow older and your bones and teeth experience more wear; straightened teeth have improved longevity!

Rocking a set of straight pearly whites can affect your personality for the better and send your confidence soaring – so having braces as an adult is a smile price to pay for a lifetime of sky-high self-esteem and fewer dental issues. 

About the Practice

The team at Arlington Heights Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry has proudly served the needs of patients and families in the Arlington Heights community for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages including braces. If you have any questions about the article or you’d like to get in touch with the team to set up an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please feel free to reach out online or by phone today. Telephone: (847) 255-3020.