Have you ever wondered, “Am I too old for braces?” The short answer is absolutely not! Many adults are choosing to improve their smile with adult orthodontics, and there are many options available today, including braces and Invisalign for adults. Whichever you’re interested in, Dr. Talley, Dr. Clark, and the Bird Smile Orthodontics team want to share a few things to consider as you dive in.
1. Adult Orthodontics is More Common Than You Think
If you feel like getting braces as an adult is uncommon, guess again! The American Association of Orthodontists reports that one in three orthodontic patients is an adult. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, adult braces can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, one that’s both healthier and aesthetically pleasing. So, if you’re asking yourself, “Am I too old for braces?”—the answer is definitely no!
2. There Are Multiple Modern Treatment Options
With adult orthodontics, you’ll find various treatment options to fit your lifestyle and preferences. Invisalign® for adults is a popular choice; these clear, removable aligners are nearly invisible and straighten teeth instead of brackets and wires. It’s an attractive option for adults who need a discreet and convenient option.
Modern metal braces or clear ceramic braces that blend more with your teeth are great options as well. Today’s braces have smaller, sleeker brackets and more comfortable wires for treatment that’s effective yet gentler than in years past.
You’ll also be glad to know that at Bird Smiles Orthodontics, we harness the power of technology to make your experience more comfortable. No more goopy molds for planning your treatment! Instead, we use a digital intraoral scanner to get a 3D rendering of your teeth, then plan your treatment digitally from that precise imagery.
3. Treatment Time May Vary
The duration of adult orthodontic treatment can vary and is typically based on three things:
- Complexity of your case
- If you’re using braces or clear aligners
- How well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions and your treatment plan
While some adults might complete their treatment in as little as six months for minor misalignment using Invisalign, others may need additional time with adult braces or Invisalign to correct complex issues like a misaligned bite and teeth. At Bird Smiles Orthodontics, all our adult orthodontic treatment options begin with a personalized plan, so every patient’s treatment time is unique to them.
4. Benefits Go Beyond Aesthetics
Getting braces or Invisalign as an adult is about more than just achieving a beautiful smile. It’s about your oral and overall health, too. Correcting misaligned teeth can improve your oral health by making it easier to clean teeth and gums, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. This can be a preventative step in your dental health in the golden years, lessening your risk of oral health issues that older adults typically become more prone to.
Properly aligned teeth also help with bite issues, which in turn can alleviate jaw pain, headaches, TMJ disorder and improve oral functioning like chewing and speaking. And it goes without saying that a smile you’re proud of can lift your self-confidence. It’s safe to say that adult orthodontics is not just a cosmetic investment but one that can contribute to a better quality of life.
5. Finding the Right Orthodontist Is Key
When considering adult orthodontic treatment, finding the right orthodontist is crucial. As your Washington, DC, orthodontist for both kids and adults, you can entrust your smile to your highly skilled experts, Dr. Talley and Dr. Clark. Plus, we have a high-tech approach paired with custom treatment — for results you’ll smile about. We work with you to determine which adult orthodontic treatment options are right for your case and lifestyle. Whether it’s modern metal braces, clear ceramic braces, or adult Invisalign, we’ll help you achieve a custom smile more comfortably and efficiently.
If you choose Invisalign, you’ll be confident knowing that we’re a Diamond Invisalign provider, meaning we have exceptional skill and experience with Invisalign. In fact, we’re a leading provider of Invisalign in Washington, DC!
Adult Orthodontics With Your Trusted Washington, DC Orthodontist
So again, the answer to, “Am I too old for braces?” Simply put, no. It’s never too late to enjoy the benefits of a straight smile, and with numerous adult orthodontic treatment options available, there’s a teeth straightening treatment for you. From metal braces to clear braces to Invisalign for adults, your Tenleytown orthodontists have a solution that fits your lifestyle and smile goals.
If you’re ready to improve your smile with adult orthodontics, contact Bird Smiles Orthodontics for a complimentary initial consultation.
