Braces aren’t just for kids!!
Nowadays more and more adults are deciding to have orthodontic treatment. It can be successful at any age.
Why have Orthodontic treatment as an adult?
It may be that you are unhappy with your smile or you have bite problems and never had orthodontic work as a child. It may be that you have seen your teenage son or daughter having successful treatment and would like the same chance. You now realize that it is time to do something about it and give yourself a treat.
What would Orthodontic treatment as an adult involve?
Initial Consultation
A first visit to examine your mouth and teeth, to discuss the problem and the possible solutions. You are then sent a report which will give the possible treatment plans and an indication of costs. A report is also sent to your dentist. An X-ray may be taken. A second visit is then planned where the specific details of the treatment will be discussed taking into consideration your views and requirements.
Treatment
this will depend on the treatment plan suggested. It is likely that an appliance will be fitted and regular visits to the Orthodontist will be required to check and adjust the appliance.
How often will I need to see the Orthodontist?
Again this will depend on the treatment plan but fixed braces are adjusted every 4 to 6 weeks.
How is the treatment different in adults?
It isn’t! The biological processes are the same, it involves the movement of teeth through bone. It is true that moving can be slower in adults but they tend to be more motivated than teenagers and through their better compliance they often experience fewer problems during treatment. This helps the Orthodontist complete treatment in the shortest possible time.
Are there age limits?
No, definitely not! Generally, as long as you and your gums are healthy there is no age limit. There may be complicating factors that may limit or preclude orthodontic treatment but your Orthodontist will advise you about these matters.
Does it hurt?
There is a level of discomfort that varies from person to person, especially initially but this is easily controlled with the use of painkillers as you would a headache or muscle pain. After a while, you get used to the braces and don’t notice them.
Are there any risks?
Orthodontic treatment is trouble-free for the vast majority of patients. You may experience discomfort initially but providing your teeth cleaning program is good and your diet healthy everything should proceed normally.
Don’t braces look awful?
No, they don’t have to! Conventional braces are now much smaller and less noticeable. You also see more adults wearing braces nowadays so it has become much more acceptable.
There are also alternatives.
- Clear braces – tooth-colored ceramic brackets, not invisible but much less visible than metal.
- Invisalign – a set of clear aligners looking a bit like a gum shield that gradually moves the teeth.
- Lingual braces – these are braces that fit behind the teeth.
What will it cost?
There will be a fee for the initial consultation as a private patient. Individual treatments vary dependant on the nature of the problem and the course to be undertaken. The cost of treatment may be as little as $3000.00 for simple one arch treatment with metal brackets.
Should I go for it?
It’s never too late!!
Call for an appointment or use the referral form.