What You Should Know Before Getting Braces as an Adult

September 15, 2020

a young woman standing outside and smiling wide as she shows off her traditional braces

No matter if you’re a working professional, stay-at-home parent, or college student, achieving a straighter, healthier smile is important. Whether it is because you want to make a great first impression, want to look your best at your cousin’s wedding next year, or you simply want to feel better about the way you look, there are ways in which you can go about receiving orthodontic treatment that is safe and effective. Read on to hear from a dentist in Granby who shares a few useful tips to keep in mind when preparing to wear braces as an adult

Braces are Not Meant to Be Worn Forever

Whether you are excited about your upcoming orthodontic treatment or not, it’s important to remember that you won’t need to wear them for the rest of your life. Depending on the type of braces you receive (i.e. traditional orthodontics, clear braces, etc.), you can expect to undergo treatment for 1-2 years.

Traditional Orthodontics is More Affordable

If the price is a concern and you don’t mind the metal, traditional braces are often far more affordable than other solutions. If oral problems are the reason your dentist is recommending treatment, you will likely pay less if you have dental insurance because so many companies offer coverage for orthodontics. You will need to check with your insurer first to determine how much you can expect your out-of-pocket expenses to be.

Invisalign is an Alternative Option

If metal braces aren’t what you had in mind when you said you wanted to straighten your smile, your dentist can offer an alternative solution that is more discreet – Invisalign. These clear, plastic aligners are custom-made to fit comfortably inside your mouth and gently shift your teeth in the desired direction. Coming with a higher level of responsibility, you will be required to wear them at least 20-22 hours each day and switch them out for the next set every 1-2 weeks.

Your Oral Health Will Drastically Improve

Overcrowding, spaces between teeth, and poor bite alignment all contribute to worsening oral health conditions. Whether you struggle to properly clean your teeth because you can’t get between them, or you suffer from increasing jaw pain as a result of your misaligned bite, adult braces will give you a chance to significantly improve your oral health and enjoy a healthier smile for a lifetime. By realigning your teeth and bite, you will notice less wear and tear and an improved ability to effectively clean your teeth and gums.

You’ll Enjoy Improved Aesthetics and Greater Confidence

Although 1-2 years of your life will be devoted to making improvements to your smile, the investment in time and money will be worth it when you see the results. Having a smile that is healthy and straight will give you the confidence you need to make a great first impression. It will also help in achieving a more youthful appearance, which can be life-changing for someone who longs for a more vibrant look and feel.

Whether you seek a dental professional for orthodontic help or you learn that your teeth could benefit from adult braces, know the results you will achieve will be well worth the investment.

About the Author
Dr. Kenneth Endres brings more than 40 years of experience to his patients at Salmon Brook Dental Associates. Completing his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at Howard University, he joined the United States Air Force and completed a one-year residency at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS. He has extensive experience in a wide array of dental specialties, one of which is orthodontics. He and his colleague, Dr. Gunveen Chawla, work collaboratively to help individuals looking to straighten their smile and improve their self-esteem. If orthodontic treatment sounds like something you could benefit from, contact us via our website or call (860) 653-4551.