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Adult orthodontic braces straighten crooked teeth or correct misaligned bites. Braces improve the appearance of teeth, reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease and improve structural issues in the mouth that may lead to jaw pain and problems chewing and speaking. Depending on the severity of orthodontic issues, adults may have to wear braces for one to three years, with periodic orthodontic check-ups and readjustments. Proper care can minimize discomfort and help adults cope with wearing braces.
Braces are not only for the young. According to Delta Dental, approximately one million American adults wear braces. Because adults often have to wear braces for a longer time than children do, learning how to manage wearing them is paramount. Aside from physical discomfort, some adults feel self-conscious and worry they'll be made fun of. Adults can, however, learn how to adjust to braces and get the perfect smile they've always wanted.
Many adults have problems with their teeth because their parents could not afford braces, or else techniques to fix the problem did not exist when they were children. More and more adults are now opting for orthodontic treatment.
Braces consist of three or four main hardware pieces. The brackets, archwire, ligature wire--if used--and in many cases bands that fit over molars for added wire support. In recent years, ligature wire has been replaced in many orthodontic practices.
Braces, or orthodontia appliances, are used to straighten crooked teeth and place them in better alignment in the jaw. Overcrowded or misaligned teeth can lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease, and future loss of teeth. More adults are getting braces to correct these problems so they can keep their teeth longer.
Adult orthodontic patients have several options to consider; they don't have to settle for the metal braces worn by their peers when they were teens. The option they choose may be affected by such factors as cost, tooth color, the severity of the misalignment of their teeth and how obvious they want their treatment to be.
If you did not have braces as a child, you probably felt that you were getting away with something big. After all, braces are one of the most universally embarrassing parts of being a teenager, and nearly everyone remembers at least one instance of being teased or taunted for being a "metal mouth." However, as an adult, you may feel differently. Not getting braces early in life can lead to seriously crooked teeth which grow worse as you age. Fortunately, it is not too late. Adult braces are an option for anyone, but you need to understand all the ramifications…
