Over 4 million people in the U.S.wear braces. About one-fourth of those people are adults. Adult braces are becoming more common, and outcomes from adult braces are usually positive.
One survey concluded that needing braces is more common than not needing them, estimating that only 35 percent of all adults in the U.S. have properly aligned teeth. That means the majority of adults throughout the country should be asking their dentist if braces are right for them.
Even in this time of uncertainty with Covid 19, people are signing up for orthodontic treatment and braces. Most believe adult braces lead to improvements in their professional and personal lives. One survey showed that 75 percent felt there were life changes to their improved smile, and over 90 percent would recommend orthodontic treatment to other adults.
Table of Contents
How do I know if I need Braces?
The Most Popular Dentist in UAE would recommend braces to improve a patient’s appearance. Issues like crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, incorrect jaw position, and disorders of the jaw joints are corrected. If you have teeth out-of-place or a misaligned jaw, be sure to ask your local dentist if braces are right for you.
Symptoms indicating you need braces to include:
- teeth that are crowded or crooked
- have an issue biting the tongue or cutting tongue on your teeth
- difficulty flossing between and brushing around crooked teeth
- teeth that don’t close over or meet each other properly when your mouth is at rest
- speech issues due to your tongue’s position under your teeth
- jaws that make noises or click when you chew or first wake up
- fatigue or pain on your jawline after chewing
How will you choose which Type of Braces?
No two mouths are the same, and everyone has their own needs and personal preferences when it comes to braces. Your orthodontist will discuss your habits, treatment goals and dental needs with you before making recommendations. There are two primary types of braces to consider: Metal or Invisalign.
What to expect with Metal Braces
Today’s metal braces are sleeker, more comfortable and even trendy thanks to celebrities who are wearing them. You can choose from a variety of colored bands to show your style. Your orthodontist will see you every 4 to 6 weeks for a check-up, adjustment and band swap.
Metal braces are a three-part system of brackets, wires and molar bands that use the wire’s tension to move teeth into the desired location. The brightly colored bands you see around the brackets are used to hold the wires in place. Orthodontists bend and tighten the wires to encourage teeth to rotate, move together or move apart.
Extras like rubber bands that connect the upper and lower brackets, coils that run between teeth and other devices can be used to correct issues like mild jaw misalignment or pronounced tooth gaps. While noticeable, metal braces are often the most affordable braces for kids and adults alike.
What to Expect with Invisalign Braces
The invisible braces option, Invisalign uses a series of clear liners that you change out every few weeks. These hidden braces are like an ultra-thin night guard. How long you continue to wear braces will depend on your needs and treatment goals. However, metal braces and Invisalign usually need to be worn for about the same amount of time.
Invisalign trays are made using a mold of your mouth. It takes two to four weeks to get your first set. Each set reflects a series of small adjustments that will gradually straighten your smile. You can take them out to eat, take photos and brush your teeth. Most, but not all, orthodontic concerns can be addressed by Invisalign.
Invisible braces are a favorite for adults and teens that aren’t as comfortable with metal braces. Because you remove the trays to eat, you have the freedom to eat whatever you want.
Did you know your Dentist may have Same Day Braces?
Your dentist knows you don’t want to make more trips to their office more times than is necessary. With special same day braces for kids and adults, the initial fitting process can be done in as little as two appointments. Ask your dentist about a same-day program during your initial consultation to see if you qualify.
Not Sure you can Afford Braces?
If you’re an adult that’s considering braces, you may wonder if it will fit your budget. Most offices will work with you to make the right financing available. Maybe braces weren’t as affordable when you were a kid, or you could be one of the many people who didn’t need orthodontics until later in life. No matter what your situation, you’ll be surprised how much sleeker and affordable orthodontics are today.
Braces are an expense and many people need help to handle the cost. Ask your dentist if they have an in-house financing program to eliminate the red tape and make your braces more affordable. You can work with your dentist office directly to develop a reasonable payment plan you can afford.
Usually you don’t have to pay for an office visit to get an estimate for your braces. Often your initial consultation, including x-rays, is free. Your dentist or orthodontist will evaluate your situation and present you with an accurate treatment estimate upfront so you can make an informed decision.
Where do I make an appointment to get braces?
Many dentist’s offices give you a full service office with orthodontics services on-site. When choosing an office of this type, there are no special referrals, no complicated record transfers and no hassles. You get the comfort of knowing everything is being handled by a network of dental professionals you know and trust all in one office.
Remember, it is never too late to get braces but the problems you have like crowded or crooked teeth are not going to go away on their own. Ask your local dentist if braces are right for you.
