I’m Not a Teenager Anymore. Is it Too Late for Braces?

Getting braces is a rite of passage in childhood. While the majority of people who wear braces in the United States are children and teenagers, at least 25% of braces wearers are adults. 

Orthodontic treatment is typically recommended in childhood when some malocclusions (problems with the bite) are easier to treat, but the truth is that it’s never too late to get orthodontic treatment when you need it.

At Manhasset Dental Arts, our dentists Dr. Elizabeth Abrams, Dr. Michael Abrams, and our team offer family dentistry services for patients of all ages at our office in Manhasset, New York.

Is it too late for adults to get braces?

The good news is that it’s never too late to get braces, no matter how old you are. In fact, ignoring orthodontic problems could put your oral health at risk. 

For example, if you have crooked teeth or crowding, it can be more difficult to adequately brush and floss your teeth, which increases your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.

Bite and alignment problems can also make it more difficult to eat, negatively affecting your nutrition and health. 

Some bite problems also affect speech and make it more difficult to speak clearly.

In addition to oral health issues, problems with your teeth can also impact your confidence and self-esteem and negatively affect your personal and professional relationships.

Whether you’re 25, 65, or older, investing in your oral health is never the wrong time. 

Braces and orthodontic treatment options for adults

There are several options available depending on your orthodontic needs. In addition to traditional braces, adults also have the option of choosing Invisalign® clear aligners. 

Like braces, Invisalign trays gradually shift your teeth into the desired alignment over time. However, there are a few key differences between Invisalign and braces. The trays are clear, so they’re a more discreet and subtle option. 

Invisalign trays are removable for up to two hours a day, so you can maintain your oral hygiene routine and continue eating your favorite foods throughout the treatment period.

Depending on your circumstances, the treatment period may sometimes be shorter with Invisalign.

Invisalign may not be the best option in every case, which we can determine during an oral evaluation.

Signs you need braces

A thorough dental exam is necessary to determine if you need braces, but here are some of the most common orthodontic problems treated by braces and Invisalign:

• Crooked/crowded teeth
• Gaps/spaces
• Misaligned bite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite
• Open bite
• Jaw pain (may be a sign of TMJ disorder)
• Headaches

If it’s been more than six months since your last dental exam and cleaning, or if you’re experiencing new symptoms or orthodontic issues, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

For more information about Invisalign and orthodontic treatments available for adults, contact Manhasset Dental Arts today to schedule an appointment at our office in Manhasset, New York.