When is too late to get braces? It is never too late to correct orthodontic problems to get that perfect smile! The usual age for braces (dental appliances) installation is during childhood, adolescence or teenage years. This is typically after the child gets his or her first trip to the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child should have his or her first orthodontic checkup by age 7.

Get Braces at Any Age

The teeth and jaw are examined for abnormalities in relation to developing teeth and bone structure. Teeth crowding, malocclusions (misalignment of the teeth or jaw), bite problems and other abnormalities can be spotted early, during this visit. Treatment with these appliances may be recommended or the child’s oral development may be monitored to determine at what age they should be installed. But, does this mean that you’re out of luck if you’re an adult or a mom, between the ages of 20-45, and have noticed these dental abnormalities? Certainly not. Interceptive orthodontic treatment at an earlier age is ideal since the gum and bone structure are still developing. This means that the perfect age for treatment is after all adult teeth come in and bone development is stable. Despite early detection of abnormalities may save money on corrective orthodontic procedures and reduce the chance of a bracket-and-wire smile as an adult, what matters is you having perfect teeth and a radiant smile to match!  

Signs You Need an Orthodontic Check-Up

Children, teens, and adults need orthodontic check-ups to maintain oral health. If they are discovered, the following common problems will need treatment:

• Crowded Teeth: Teeth crowd or ‘ride’ each other due to lack of space in the mouth. Tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease are more likely to occur due to difficulties brushing and flossing crowded teeth.
• Overbite: An overbite happens when the front top row of teeth protrudes over or overlaps the bottom row. It may be difficult to chew food properly. There is also a higher risk of trauma to the teeth.
• Crossbite: When teeth are closer to the cheek or tongue in comparison to the opposing teeth, the condition is called a crossbite.
• Underbite: This condition occurs when the upper front teeth are below the lower front teeth. Difficulties such as chewing may result.
• Misaligned Jaw: When the upper and lower teeth are out of alignment when pressed together, it is due mainly to a misaligned jaw. Difficulties in chewing, speaking, breathing, and sleeping are common issues caused by jaw misalignment. It can also result in facial asymmetry (unbalanced face).

Treatment may also help alleviate or correct the following others problems:

• Teeth clenching or teeth grinding
• Gummy smile
• Cheek bites
• Tongue thrusting, lisp, or speech problems
• Pain or difficulty eating

   

Types of Braces

Once you have healthy gum and bone structure, your teeth or jaw can be aligned to fix issues with the teeth and bite problems caused by teeth and jaw misalignment. Adult orthodontic treatment can be done using advanced technology and any of these various types of braces. They are all designed to bring the teeth into proper alignment.

• Metal

These are made of durable, high-quality stainless steel that look like wires and are great for patients of all ages. They are affixed to the teeth using brackets to hold teeth in place and wires to connect the brackets.

• Invisalign™

Invisalign™ is a more modern type of dental appliance. These are invisible plastic aligners worn over the affected teeth to bring them into the proper position. It is preferred by teens and adults who are self-conscious or want to correct teeth flaws incognito. They can be easily removed (e.g., for eating) cleaned, and replaced.

• Clear

Clear braces are very popular. These are great for adults due to their cosmetic appeal. They are practically invisible since they are usually made from tooth-color wires and brackets. Instead of in front, the brackets are connected behind the teeth using elastics.  

Am I a Good Candidate for Adult Orthodontic Treatment?

Good oral health can impact how you look and feel. It is even said that people with healthy teeth and gum have greater confidence and higher self-esteem and are, therefore, more likely to be successful in their career and relationships. With regards to age, you already know you may qualify, since there is no specific restriction on the age for this treatment. You may be a good candidate for adult teeth alignment, especially if:

• You are age 20-45
• Experience difficulties in chewing, speaking, or breathing due any of the bite problems or imperfect jaw alignment
• You have a deep desire to alleviate these problems
• Want to improve your smile and self-confidence
• You do not have any health condition such as an oral infection

 

Finding the Right Orthodontist

Finding the right orthodontic practice to get braces in your city is not always as easy as you expect. You should look for one that is professional and caring and treats each patient based on their individual needs. An expert orthodontist would do an initial oral examination and evaluation to determine whether this procedure is right for you. Your teeth will be examined to check the front-to-back and side-to-side relationships. The doctor will outline a treatment plan which will include the type of dental appliance that best suits you and the expected period and cost of treatment. Corrective dental appliances are usually worn for 18 to 36 months, but Invisalign™ is usually worn for a shorter period. The use of new techniques and appliances at this dental practice reduces discomfort and decreases the frequency of follow-up visits. So, there’s no need to worry about whether you’ve passed the age for treatment. If you live in the Centerville, OH, or surrounding areas and think you may need adult orthodontic treatment, you’re welcome to visit King Orthodontics.    

To The King We Go...

Dr. Sam King, D.D.S., M.S. is board certified with years of expertise in orthodontics. He has treated children, teens, and adults. Simply call (937) 433-0830 to schedule a consultation to get braces or request one by filling out the online appointment form. Your perfect smile awaits!

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FAIRBORN OFFICE 400 East Dayton, Yellow Springs Rd. Fairborn, OH 45324 Phone: (937) 878-1561

When is Too Late to Get Braces? {EPIC ANSWERS}