Teeth shifting is a natural process. Over time, factors such as aging, dental habits, and missing teeth can cause movement. If your once-perfect smile has gone askew, you’re not alone. Our teeth can move throughout our lives. But the good news? Orthodontic treatments work effectively for all ages.
For children and teens, teeth move more easily because their jawbones are still developing. This is why early orthodontic treatment can help to prevent bigger issues later in life. For adults with a fully developed jaw, it is still perfectly possible to reposition the teeth through orthodontic treatment, it just may take a little longer. These days, with powerful modern orthodontic solutions such as Invisalign, adult tooth alignment issues can be fixed more quickly and easily than ever before.
The Benefits of Having Your Teeth Straightened as an Adult
It’s certainly not too late to have perfectly straight teeth! As long as you have healthy teeth and gums, the teeth and bite can still respond to most of the same treatment options as teens and kids!
You may feel that you’ve come to terms with your imperfect smile, and that’s great, but teeth straightening isn’t just about looks, there are some huge health benefits too…
- Better Oral Hygiene: Crowded or misaligned teeth trap food and bacteria, leading to cavities and gum disease. Proper alignment makes brushing and flossing easier.
- Boosted Confidence: A straight smile can enhance self-esteem and improve personal and professional interactions.
- Prevention of Long-Term Dental Issues: Misaligned teeth can cause pressure leading to jaw pain, uneven wear, and even tooth loss.
Orthodontic Treatment Options for All Ages
When it comes to orthodontics, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. When you visit San Diego Smile Pros for your initial consultation with accomplished orthodontist Dr. Matthew Durschlag, you’ll be carefully assessed, and a treatment plan will be devised that perfectly suits your needs. A range of factors will be taken into account, and your age is just one of those considerations that will help determine the most suitable treatment strategy to achieve maximum results.
Here are the most common treatment options based on age and severity of misalignment:
- Traditional Braces: Metal or ceramic braces effectively treat complex cases at any age.
- Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign): A discreet option perfect for adults and teens with mild and moderate misalignment.
- Lingual Braces: Braces placed behind the teeth for a hidden treatment approach.
- Retainers: Often used after braces or aligners to maintain results.
- Surgical Orthodontics: Some severe cases may require jaw surgery to correct alignment issues.
Challenges and Considerations for Adult Orthodontics
While treatment is effective at any age, adults may face additional considerations:
- Increased Treatment Duration: Since adult bones are denser, tooth movement is slower than in younger patients. You will get the results you want; it might just take a little longer.
- Gum Health and Bone Density Issues: Adults with gum disease or significant bone loss may need additional dental care before orthodontic treatment can take place.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: You’ll need to pay extra attention to your oral care routine while undergoing treatment, and depending on the type of treatment you choose, you may have to alter your diet and eating habits. This is more of an issue with traditional braces that are not removable, other options, such as Invisalign aligners can be removed for ease of eating and drinking.
How to Get Started with Teeth Straightening
Thinking about having your teeth straightened? Here’s how to get started:
- Find a Qualified Orthodontist – Choose a board-certified orthodontist with experience treating adults.
- Schedule a Consultation – Get a professional evaluation of your teeth and jaw.
- Discuss Treatment Options – Based on your goals and dental health, your orthodontist will recommend the best approach.
- Plan for Costs and Insurance – Check your insurance coverage and payment plans. Most orthodontists offer flexible financing options and many dental insurance providers will give you a generous contribution towards your treatment, even if you opt for Invisalign.
San Diego residents can depend on Dr. Durschlag from San Diego Smile Pros to deliver the highest-quality orthodontic treatment. Dr. Matthew Durschlag is a board-certified orthodontist with a wealth of experience and a whole host of happy clients with beautiful smiles. His specialist skills ensure the successful treatment of even the most complex conditions, including all types of orthodontics, Invisalign, clear and metal braces, lingual braces, TADs (temporary anchorage devices), fixing open bites, crowding, overbites, surgical cases and more!
Check out our reviews on Yelp and Google and discover our success stories!
FAQs About Teeth Straightening for Adults
Is there an age limit for braces or Invisalign?
No, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can get braces or Invisalign aligners at any age. Many adults in their 50s and 60s have successful orthodontic treatment, so if you want your teeth straightened for your 80th birthday, that’s awesome, go for it!
Are the results permanent?
With proper retainer use, your results can last a lifetime. However, if you fail to use a retainer as instructed, your teeth may shift over time and become misaligned again. Proper use of your retainer is key to maintaining results in the long term.
Does treatment take longer for adults?
In general yes, while advancements in orthodontics have significantly improved efficiency, making adult orthodontics a faster process than it once was, children’s jawbones are less dense, and so their treatment progresses at a faster rate.
Can I still get braces if I have missing teeth?
Yes! Braces or aligners can help adjust surrounding teeth to create space for implants or bridges.
Are there any risks for older adults?
Older adults with gum disease or bone loss should consult both a dentist and an orthodontist to ensure treatment is safe, however, many older people get the green light to go ahead with treatment and get great results.
What’s the best treatment for mild misalignment in adults?
Clear aligners such as Invisalign are often the best choice for mild to moderate misalignment, offering convenience, comfort, and discretion.
Conclusion
So, can your teeth be straightened at any age? Absolutely! Whether you’re a teen, an adult, or even a senior, modern orthodontics offers a variety of options to improve your smile and oral health. The key is to find the right orthodontist and commit to the process. If you’re ready to transform your smile, consider reaching out to an expert like Dr. Durschlag at San Diego Smile Pros.
