Can Adults Get Braces?

You might be accustomed to seeing braces on teenagers, but there’s no upper age limit to earning a straight smile. No matter your age, there are still opportunities to improve your dental health through braces. Many American adults decide to wear braces in order to straighten crooked teeth or realign their bites. 

At AZ Family Dental, we have more than 40 years of experience in dental care. Our team of expert staff offers quality care at an affordable price for families across the Glendale area. If you’re an adult considering braces, read on to discover our top tips — and how we can help bring you closer to the smile of your dreams.

Can Adults Have Braces?

Braces are most commonly seen on older children and adolescents after their permanent teeth have grown in. However, braces aren’t exclusive to any age range. Adults of all ages can get braces to fix orthodontic issues and straighten their smile. In fact, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, one in five orthodontic patients is 18 or older.

As an adult, keep in mind that your situation will be slightly different than for a child. The side effects of braces for adults can include:

• Longer process time: Adults typically have to wear braces for longer than a child or adolescent. Every case is unique, but you can expect to undergo treatment for about two years.
• Possibility for surgery: Because adult bones aren’t growing anymore, bigger structural changes may require surgery.
• A combination of care: As an adult with braces, you may need to check in with a periodontist regularly as well as your orthodontist to make sure your gums remain healthy.

Reasons Why You Should Get Braces

In addition to straightening their smile, many adults choose braces for a number of health reasons. Whether you had braces as a child and need some extra correction, or you’ll be wearing them for the first time, braces can help:

• Straighten crooked or crowded teeth.
• Fix overbites and underbites.
• Realign incorrect jaw positions, helping resolve health conditions like TMJ or sleep apnea.

If left untreated, these conditions can lead to more serious problems. Misaligned teeth and jaws can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty eating, as well as persistent headaches and earaches.

Options for Adult Orthodontics

When it comes to adult braces, there are more options than ever. Thanks to new technology and innovative designs, braces are increasingly comfortable, with smaller brackets and less noticeable wires. In addition to the classic look of colored, gold, or stainless steel wires and brackets, you may want to consider more subtle tooth-colored ceramic or clear plastic brackets.

The cost of braces varies depending on your needs, materials used, insurance coverage, and length of treatment. A wide range of options means you can find a treatment plan that fits your preferences and budget.

Schedule an Appointment to Discuss Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Interested in taking the first step toward braces as an adult? Our team at AZ Family Dental is committed to making the process as easy, affordable, and comfortable as possible. We provide high-quality care in a family-oriented environment so our patients can experience the utmost peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.