A lot of people ask, "Can I still get braces as an adult?" Dr. Reese would most likely answer, “Yes!" You're never too old to have braces. In fact, studies show that almost 20% of people who wear braces are adults. About 1 million Americans over the age of 18 wear braces. This is because of the newer option of wearing less visible braces like Invisalign.
WHY WOULD I STILL GET BRACES AS AN ADULT?
Aside from aesthetic reasons, one would need braces to correct malocclusions or what is commonly known as a bad bite. Crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites and incorrect jaw positions, when left untreated, may result in tooth decay problems, gum disease, TMJ disorders as well as speaking, chewing or digestive problems.
WOULD ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT BE DIFFERENT FOR ME?
Your dentist should be able to tell you upfront that treatment might take longer because teeth are more anchored in the jaw. One the average, adults wear braces between 12 to 36 months. After treatment, adults may need to wear retainers to maintain the results too.
HOW DO I FIND OUT IF I NEED TO WEAR BRACES?
Consults with your dentist. He will be able to advise you if braces are needed in your situation. Depending on the complexity of your situation, he may or may not refer you to an orthodontist, a dentist specializing in correcting the irregularities of teeth.
WHY CHOOSE DR. REESE AT INDIANAPOLIS DENTISTRY?
When you decide to go to Indianapolis Dentistry for treatment there will be no need to make multiple, inefficient trips visiting your family dentist, getting a referral, AND finding an orthodontist. At our clinic, we do it ALL in office! Dr. Ted Reese utilizes holistic (whole-body) dentistry techniques in order to offer Indianapolis premier orthodontic treatment, in-office, at his dental surgery center just north of Greenwood, Indiana.
Here are some common questions you might want to ask at your initial consultation. Dr. Reese would probably tell you your options without you asking:
- What are the costs involved?
- How will the braces correct my problem?
- How long will I need to wear braces?
- What is the dentist's experience with my particular problem?
- Will I be able to schedule appointments at convenient times?
HOW DO I START TREATMENT?
Once it has been determined that braces are needed for your situation, a treatment plan will be created based on reviews of your dental x-rays and dental impressions of your teeth. This is an imprint of your teeth in a mold. An impression is made by placing a viscous, thixotropic impression material into the mouth via a custom or stock dental impression tray. The material, then sets to become an elastic solid, and, when removed from the mouth, provides a detailed and stable negative of teeth.
ARE THERE OTHER OPTIONS ASIDE FROM WEARING THE TRADITIONAL METAL BRACES?
For adult options there are tooth colored or ceramic braces for complicated corrections or the recently popular ‘aligner’ therapies like Invisalign or Clearcorrect. These popular options for busy and professional adults help avoid the “braces appearance” but limitations do exist.
WOULD THERE BE A BIG ADJUSTMENT ONCE I WEAR BRACES?
You probably will experience some discomfort or difficulty speaking or eating when you first receive your braces. Avoid hard foods such as candy, raw carrots, corn on the cob, pretzels, nuts, popcorn and crushed ice. Include sticky foods such as caramel, taffy and gum. These foods can get stuck between teeth and gums or bend wires and knock bands or brackets loose. If this results in damage to braces, treatment may be extended.
HOW CAN I PREVENT CAVITIES WITH BRACES?
To reduce your risk of cavities, follow a regimen of brushing, flossing and rinsing. Reduce your consumption of sweets and carbohydrates. Good oral hygiene may also prevent decalcification (white spots) on teeth and tooth decay.
Our Invitation to You
Today’s braces can be as discrete, or overt, as you desire! We offer both traditional, metal braces and non-metal, ceramic braces. Both accomplish the same goal of improving your smile through controlled alignment over time. Call 317-882-0228 for fast and easy appointment scheduling and ask about our consultation and insurance options!