Wish you could go back in time to straighten your teeth? Good news: the ship hasn't sailed for that dream just yet! More and more adults are heading to the orthodontist's office to get the smile they've always wanted.
If news about the topic or a passerby with braces has left you wanting to know more, your curiosity is about to be satisfied. Below are key insights about adult orthodontic treatment that can help you decide whether braces are right for you.
Tradition may hold braces as a rite of passage for pre-teens and teens, but the truth of the matter is that they are an effective solution to improve your smile no matter how old you are. Even senior citizens can (and increasingly do) get their smile straightened at the hands of an orthodontist.
In some extreme cases, patients with receding gums may not be eligible for care. If your teeth have very shallow roots, this can also make orthodontic treatment unviable. Don't rule out braces, however, until you get the professional opinion of an orthodontist.
The primary difference between getting braces as an adult versus a teenager is the length of time for treatment. Because adult jaws are less malleable, correcting misalignments and/or crowding may require teeth to be pulled if there is not enough space. This is different than treatment for young patients, since a growing jaw can be stretched and shaped to accommodate teeth. Healing time also tends to slow down with age, which means moving teeth can take a bit longer. Despite these adjustments, you'll still be able to achieve a straighter smile.
Times have changed, and metal braces aren't the only choice. For those who are less than enthused about having a "metal mouth", or are anxious about their braces becoming a distraction, there are more discreet options to consider. While metal braces offer the speediest route to a straighter smile, ceramic and clear braces are much less noticeable. It's important to note that ceramic and clear braces can stain easily, but if you don't smoke and steer clear of dark beverages, either might be a great choice for you.
It can take more time to straighten your teeth, but the benefits are significant — and not just cosmetic! In addition to improving your appearance and self-esteem, straighter teeth can reduce unnecessary stress on your jaw, make chewing/eating more efficient, and help keep gingivitis and tooth decay at bay.
Get an orthodontist's perspective on which type of braces is best for you, and an estimate on the length of treatment you can expect. Don't be afraid to ask for referrals or reviews, and remember that a slow, gradual approach may be safer and more manageable in the long run.
Dr. Rehder and the entire staff are friendly and compassionate. They accommodate my needs as a patient and treat me as a personal friend. Professionally, they provide the utmost care and advice, the patient always comes first. I can’t say enough positive comments about this practice.
~Review by Eileen S.
Dr. Rehder is very professional, yet not too serious as he is doing your teeth. He makes it relaxing and is able to keep your mind away from his work (I have never liked going to the dentist, but Dr. Rehder makes the experience as close to pleasant as a dentist visit can be).
~Review by Mary Ellen M.
Thank you Dr. Rehder and Christine for the "always exciting" and "never a dull moment" orthodontist appointment. See you in two weeks to do it all over again. Ok maybe-not ALL over again.
~Review by Elena C.
I had a great experience with Dr. Rehder. He is very informative and professional. All of the staff were so nice and helpful. My overall experience was one of the best I had with a dental office. I would definitely recommend people to come here.
~Review by Paulina C.
Professional staff. Makes you feel at ease, would highly recommend.
~Review by Diane S.
Always wonderful visits at Pinefield Dental. I've been a patient since the very early 90s. The staff is my extended family & takes care of my teeth with the utmost professionalism. This is my dental home.
~Review by Kenneth C.
The doctor and staff were wonderful. My experience is always great. The staff is very caring and always professional. The hours are very convenient as well. They will be able to accommodate anyone's schedule.
~Review by Amanda C.
Richard F. Gittleson, DDS Reviews No one likes/enjoys going to the dentist, but our dentist (Dr. Gittleson) and his staff are so pleasant they help relieve a patient fears.
~Review by Patricia L.
Highly recommended, I’ve been a patient since 1983.
~Review by Charles G.
Excellent.
~Review by Dom J.
