Am I Too Old for Orthodontic Treatment?

Have you ever wondered if orthodontic treatment is available for you as an adult?

If so, the answer is yes! In fact, there are many benefits to orthodontic treatment in adulthood.

Adults may choose to have their teeth straightened because they want a more youthful appearance and better dental health.

One of the most common reasons is that adults feel they need their teeth straightening or realigned due to an accident when they were younger. Another reason could be that one or two teeth have shifted over time.

So, if you’re thinking about getting braces, don’t worry. You’re never too old for orthodontic treatment! Your orthodontist considers many variables when developing your customized treatment plan, but age is rarely a deciding factor.

Orthodontics can be as successful for adults as it is with teens and kids – in fact one of three patients are adults who have had success after the process was completed that made them feel gorgeous and confident again!

Can Adults’ Teeth be Moved?

Did you know adults can get their teeth moved, too? It’s the same physiological process that moves a child’s or teen’s tooth through bone.

A force is applied over time to make it happen and many orthodontic problems for children/teens are also correctable in adults with denser bones. The treatment might take longer because of the adults age, but they still need care even if there isn’t any growth going on!

How is Adult Treatment Different?

From the first day of orthodontic treatment, there are distinct differences between adults and their younger counterparts.

For starters, as many patients enter adulthood, they become more prone to tooth decay due in part to habits like smoking or clenching/grinding teeth that can harm our pearly whites over time. This is one reason why it’s always best for those older than 18 years old who want straighter teeth to be proactive about preventing future cavities!

The other major difference? Adults have stopped growing so while children will need a denture if we extract some of their baby teeth during an initial phase, adult mouths do not require any such attachment because natural growth has ceased at this point in life.

Dentists and orthodontic professionals are integral to achieving optimal dental health, but they don’t do all this work alone. When it’s time for a root canal or an extraction, you may want the help of other dental specialists too!

How Does the Orthodontic Treatment Process Work?

Today, there are many options to choose from when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Each appliance is designed for a specific situation and best fits your lifestyle.

You can find braces with clear aligners that should not be noticeable at all or traditional metal braces that frame the teeth better than ever before thanks to new innovations in this field of dentistry such as comfortable brackets on adults’ appliances; you may even want tooth colored dental work if blending into society seamlessly is an issue for you!

There are a lot of appliances that orthodontists can use to help correct different kinds of problems, but not every appliance is right for each problem. Make sure you go see an orthodontist so they can pick the one best suited for your needs!

How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Last?

Orthodontists work with adult patients on approximately a 22-month timeline, and appointments are scheduled about every 6 to 8 weeks.

It’s more than worth the investment of time for improved dental health, better function (biting/chewing), keeping your teeth cleaner, and higher self-esteem. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by, get started today!

Who Do I Trust My Smile With?

Trust an American Association of Orthodontists. You can work with an AAO Orthodontist to achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed about at any age! They are experts in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics – (properly aligned teeth and jaws), which will allow them to give you your best, natural looking smile today. Find one near me now!

As you can see, there are many factors to consider before deciding whether or not orthodontic treatment is right for you. But one thing’s for sure, you’re never too old for braces!

If you have any questions about your options, we recommend contacting an AAO member orthodontist in your area or by using our orthodontist locator and schedule a consultation today. You deserve the smile of your dreams at any age!

Am I Too Old for Orthodontic Treatment?

Perry Stevens

Perry heads up a dynamic marketing team that has help the leading orthodontic practices in the USA 10X their business for over a decade. He’s a tea connoisseur, avid reader, traveling and grower of exotic fruits in his permaculture food forest.