Are you an adult with crooked or overlapping teeth? Are you curious about getting braces? You are not alone. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists says one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are starting treatment because they realize the benefits of straight teeth, which include increased self-confidence, better long-term health of the teeth and gums, and improved function of the temporomandibular (TMJ) joint.
Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, having straight teeth might be the key to securing that great job you’ve been going after, getting a promotion, or even finding your special someone. According to a study by Kelton Global in San Jose, CA, people with straight teeth give the impression that they are more successful, popular, intelligent, and generally healthy.
The good news is that adults have multiple options beyond your typical metal braces when they are in the market to straighten their teeth:
Invisible Braces
Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth which makes them by far the most discreet option. However, adjusting to the system can be a struggle, especially for the inside of your cheeks and tongue. And, like traditional braces, one must be careful not to eat foods that are crunchy or chewy to prevent brace breakage. Finally, you’ll want to be careful with your teeth cleaning as brushing and flossing behind the teeth is a challenge for some patients.
Average Cost: $7,000 to $10,000
Nearly Invisible Braces
Companies like Invisalign and Clear Correct work with orthodontists to use clear, removable plastic trays to straighten the teeth. In addition to being very aesthetic, clear aligners can be removed, eliminating worries about food restrictions and making your cleaning routine easier. Patients have to wear the aligners up to 22 hours a day, so compliance is important or the treatment time might be longer than initially predicted. Also, Invisalign and Clear Correct will often not be effective with more severe dental issues like large gaps or severely rotated teeth, so keep that in mind when heading to your orthodontist to chose your treatment.
Average Cost: $4,000 to $7000
Clear Porcelain Braces
Traditional braces are often suggested to fix severe alignment problems, since each tooth can be moved efficiently in all three planes of space. Clear braces, much like traditional, also provide final results that are most ideal and the cost of treatment is usually far less expensive than Invisalign or lingual braces. However, eating sticky or crunchy foods can cause the braces to break and cleaning around the braces and wires takes extra time.
Average Cost: $4,000 to $6,500
If you are interested in hearing about the results from some of our patients have seen, head to our website! And, if you would like to visit us at our office for your own consultation you can contact us today.
