You might be surprised to learn that braces aren’t just for kids; in fact, they’re increasingly popular among adults looking to correct dental issues like crowding, misalignment, and spacing. Age is no barrier when it comes to orthodontic treatments, with individuals in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s and beyond finding them to be effective solutions.
While braces are often associated with teenagers, adults can achieve equally impressive results. If you’re wondering whether you’re too old for braces, rest assured that age is not an obstacle.
Straightening your teeth as an adult comes with numerous benefits, and by the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what to expect from the braces treatment process. You’ll also discover some cost-effective alternatives that might suit your needs, leaving you feeling more confident about your options.
Differences Between Treatment for Adults and Teenagers
Whilst adults can receive brace treatment, just like teenagers, some fundamental factors make the process a little different.
Considerations for Adults
- Mature Dental Structure: Adults have teeth that are fully grown and developed, which means the dental structures are more rigid compared to those of younger individuals. This includes both the teeth themselves and the surrounding bone tissue, which tends to be denser in adults. As a result, the teeth may be more resistant to movement, which is a central aspect of orthodontic treatment.
- Jaw Development: In adults, the jawbone has fully formed and solidified. This is significant because orthodontic treatments often involve manipulating the position of the teeth within the jaw. The mature nature of an adult’s jawbone can add complexity to this process, potentially influencing the approach and techniques used by orthodontists.
- Treatment Duration: Due to the factors mentioned above, orthodontic treatments in adults may require more time compared to those in teenagers or children. The increased density of bone tissue and the rigidity of fully developed dental structures can slow down the process of realigning teeth. This means that adults considering braces or other orthodontic solutions should be prepared for a potentially longer treatment period.
Considerations for Teenagers
- Growth and Development: Teenagers are at a pivotal stage of growth, and their jaws are still developing. This ongoing growth means that orthodontic treatments can sometimes be timed to harness these natural changes, potentially making treatments more effective or efficient. Orthodontists often take advantage of this growth spurt to guide the jaw’s development and achieve optimal alignment.
- Eruption of Permanent Teeth: Not all of a teenager’s permanent teeth may have erupted, which is a critical consideration for starting orthodontic treatment. The timing of treatment may be strategically planned around the eruption of key teeth, such as the second molars, to ensure that the final alignment accommodates all permanent teeth effectively.
- Shorter Treatment Times: Generally, teenagers experience shorter orthodontic treatment times compared to adults. This is largely due to their ongoing growth and the increased adaptability of their bone structure, which can respond more readily to orthodontic forces. This responsiveness can lead to more efficient movement of teeth, reducing the overall time required to achieve the desired results.
Worth Knowing
According to WebMD, poor oral health has been directly linked to other health issues, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and strokes. So, healthier teeth can have tremendous health benefits.
How Long Does the Treatment Last?
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies widely and is primarily influenced by the complexity of the dental issues being addressed. For minor corrections, such as slight overcrowding or small gaps between teeth, treatment durations can be relatively short, often ranging between 6 to 12 months. These less severe cases typically require less movement of the teeth and can be resolved more quickly.
However, for more involved orthodontic problems, including significant misalignment, bite discrepancies, or severe crowding, the treatment timeline extends considerably. In adults, these complex cases may necessitate a more prolonged treatment period, potentially lasting from 18 months to as long as two years, or sometimes even more. The longer duration in adults compared to younger patients can be attributed to the decreased flexibility of mature bone tissue, which responds more slowly to orthodontic forces.
What Does the Treatment Look Like?
The journey to a straighter smile typically unfolds in a series of steps, tailored to your unique dental needs. Here’s a smoother overview of what to anticipate during orthodontic treatment.
Your process begins with an initial consultation with your orthodontist. During this meeting, they’ll conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and smile, discussing your aesthetic and functional goals. Based on this discussion, your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable treatment options for you, which may include traditional braces or modern invisible aligners, depending on your specific needs and preferences. To provide a clearer vision of the potential outcomes, some orthodontists employ advanced 3D dental scanning technology. This tool can simulate the anticipated results of your treatment, offering a glimpse into your future smile.
Once you’ve selected the treatment method that feels right for you, your orthodontist will develop a customized plan. This plan will outline the entire treatment process, including a cost breakdown, to ensure there are no surprises along the way.
Throughout the treatment, you’ll attend regular check-ups. These appointments allow your orthodontist to monitor progress, make adjustments if necessary, and ensure everything is moving according to plan. These check-ups allow your orthodontist to monitor the treatment’s progress, make any necessary adjustments to your braces or aligners, and address any concerns you may have.
After the active phase of your treatment concludes and your teeth have reached their optimal alignment, the focus shifts to maintaining these results. This is where retainers come into play. Retainers are custom-made devices designed to hold your teeth in their new position. They’re a crucial part of the post-treatment phase, ensuring that the time and investment in straightening your teeth have lasting benefits. Your orthodontist will provide you with a retainer and detailed instructions on how and when to wear it, safeguarding your beautiful new smile for years to come.
Pros and Cons of Braces for Adults
Pros of Braces for Adults
Braces for adults come with a myriad of benefits that extend beyond just aesthetic improvements. Firstly, they can significantly improve oral health by correcting misalignments that often lead to issues like uneven wear on teeth, difficulty in cleaning, and an increased risk of gum disease. Properly aligned teeth are easier to maintain and less prone to decay and periodontal problems.
Moreover, braces can rectify bite issues, improving chewing efficiency and reducing strain on jaw muscles, which can alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorders and chronic jaw pain. Furthermore, achieving a straighter smile can boost self-confidence and contribute to a more positive self-image, impacting personal and professional interactions.
Worth Knowing
The study published on PubMed Central reveals that a significant number of adults favor discreet orthodontic solutions like aligners or lingual braces.
Cons of Braces for Adults
While braces for adults can lead to significant dental improvements, they also come with certain drawbacks. One of the primary concerns is the duration of treatment, which can be longer in adults due to the reduced adaptability of mature teeth and jawbones. This extended treatment time can demand a considerable commitment to regular orthodontic visits and adjustments. Adults may also experience discomfort or soreness, especially following adjustments, as the teeth and jaws adapt to the braces. Aesthetic concerns are another consideration, as traditional metal braces can be visually prominent, which might be undesirable for some adults in professional or social settings. Additionally, braces require meticulous oral hygiene to prevent food particles from getting trapped, which can increase the risk of dental issues like cavities and gum disease if not managed properly. Lastly, the cost of orthodontic treatment can be a significant financial investment, which might not be covered by dental insurance, posing a barrier for some individuals.
See our article: Orthodontics During Pregnancy.
Alternatives to Braces for Adults
Aligners
Aligners, as an alternative to traditional braces, provide a discreet and less invasive way to straighten teeth for adults. Their clear, custom-fit design makes them nearly invisible, catering to adults who prefer a more subtle orthodontic solution. The removability of aligners simplifies eating and oral hygiene routines, allowing for thorough cleaning and reducing the risk of dental complications associated with fixed orthodontic appliances. For certain orthodontic cases, aligners can also offer a quicker path to achieving desired results. However, their effectiveness depends on the wearer’s discipline to wear them for the recommended duration each day.
See our article: Alternatives to Braces for Adults.
If you are looking for an affordable and aesthetic teeth straightening solution then clear aligners are a great choice. It is possible to order clear aligners online but it is recommended that you only do so through registered and trustworthy companies. Here is a selection of companies to help you with your selection.
Byte
An affordable option with refundable impression kits, free HyperByte, and a Byte for Life guarantee.
Check out Byte Aligners
AlignerCo
The cheapest at-home aligners, with monthly plans, no down payment, and considerable discounts.
Check out AlignerCo Aligners
Candid
A hybrid of in-office and at-home treatment that provides 1-on-1 orthodontist support.
Check out Candid AlignersLingual Appliances
Lingual appliances serve as an alternative to traditional braces, appealing to adults who prefer a less visible orthodontic treatment. These braces are attached to the inner side of the teeth, making them invisible from the outside. They are suitable for a broad range of orthodontic issues, including complex dental corrections. However, users may need time to adapt to the presence of these appliances, as they can affect speech and comfort initially. Oral hygiene might also be more challenging due to the location of the braces.
Lingual appliances work just as effectively as standard braces but the treatment is more expensive. You also still have to wear a retainer once the treatment has been completed.
Is 40 too Old for Braces?
To sum up, the idea that 40 is too old for braces is unfounded. Advances in orthodontic treatments now offer a variety of options suitable for individuals at any age, including those in their 40s and beyond. From traditional braces to invisible aligners and lingual appliances, there are solutions tailored to meet different dental needs and personal preferences. The decision to undergo orthodontic treatment should be based on individual dental requirements and a commitment to improving oral health, rather than age. Therefore, it’s clear that age should not be a barrier to achieving a healthier and more aligned smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
At What Age Is it Too Late for Braces?
Braces are an effective solution to correct misaligned teeth regardless of age. However, if braces are used on adults who have fully developed jaws, the process of straightening teeth can be more lengthy and not produce such effective results as those seen in teenagers and younger adults.
Does Brace Treatment Take Longer for Adults?
Braces treatment for adults can take longer than it does for children, as our teeth become less malleable as we age. Orthodontists recommend that adults should start early with braces treatment, as the longer your teeth have been unevenly spaced or affected by jaw misalignment, the more time it could take to create an even smile.
Can Teeth be Straightened at 40?
It is possible to straighten teeth at any age. Advances in technology for correcting crooked teeth or misaligned bites make it possible for anyone to undertake treatment.
There are braces and aligners specifically designed to fit the lifestyle of adult patients of all ages.
Sources:
Alansari, R. A., Faydhi, D. A., Ashour, B. S., Alsaggaf, D. H., Shuman, M. T., Ghoneim, S. H., Linjawi, A. I., Marghalani, H. Y., Dause, R. R., Adult Perceptions of Different Orthodontic Appliances, PubMed Central. 2019; DOI: 10.2147/PPA.S234449. Available online at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6916694/
Jaber, S. T., Hajeer, M. Y., Sultan, K., Treatment Effectiveness of Clear Aligners in Correcting Complicated and Severe Malocclusion Cases Compared to Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: A Systematic Review, Cureus. 2023 Apr; 15(4): e38311. DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38311. Available online at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10148732/
Anderson, L. E., Arruda, A., Inglehart, M. R., Adolescent Patients’ Treatment Motivation and Satisfaction with Orthodontic Treatment: Do Possible Selves Matter?, The Angle Orthodontist (2009) 79 (5): 821–827. DOI: 10.2319/120708-613.1. Available online at: https://meridian.allenpress.com/angle-orthodontist/article/79/5/821/57639/
Kravitz, N. D., Hansa, I., Vaid, N R., Moshiri, M., Adel S. M, Does age influence deep overbite correction with Invisalign? A prospective study evaluating mandibular incisor intrusion in adolescents vs adults; Angle Orthod (2023); DOI: 10.2319/050223-320.1. Available online at: https://meridian.allenpress.com/angle-orthodontist/article/doi/10.2319/050223-320.1/496672/