Am I Too Old For Braces?

Idaho braces - adult woman in dental chair with beautiful smile

 

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment in Idaho; braces, clear aligners, or retainers, call Randall Orthodontics today. We will schedule a no-obligation, complimentary consultation to debunk the myth that you’re too old for braces. We will discuss what orthodontic treatment options will help you get the results you’re looking for in the fastest amount of time. We are committed to providing you with personalized care that suits your orthodontic needs.

In just the past decade, the number of adults in America who are getting orthodontic care has risen by 40% according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). This 2014 study by the AAO shows that over 1.4 million patients were adults. This increase in numbers is due in part to new research that is now available. It shows us how much an aligned smile can affect our health, as well as, advancements in orthodontic technology. This article discusses the types of braces available for adults, considerations for getting braces when you’re older, along with how much braces cost in Idaho.

Orthodontic Treatment Options for Adults

Idaho braces cost - braces, braces process, orthodontic care

Braces today are not only cheaper and less bulky than they were years ago, but they also work more gently to move your jaw and teeth into the correct position, thus reducing overall discomfort and pain that many of us have come to associate with braces. In addition to more discreet braces, we also live in a time where there are more options to straighten our teeth then just stainless steel braces. Different orthodontic treatments for adults include:

  • Ceramic Braces – Much like stainless steel braces, ceramic braces are worn on the front or outside of the teeth but are more discreet since they blend in with your teeth. These translucent braces offer the same results as you would expect from stainless steel braces, but are not recommended for lower teeth. Ceramic braces in Idaho cost anywhere between $4,000 -$8,000 depending on which orthodontist you choose to go to, how long your treatment plan will take and other factors. To get a clearer price point for braces, speak with Randall Orthodontics. We can also provide information on financing options for adult braces in Idaho Falls.
  • Damon Clear Braces – Randall Orthodontics is a Damon orthodontist in Idaho Falls. What this means is that Dr. Randall is trained to use Damon braces that utilize passive self-ligating braces which eliminate the need for elastic or metal “ties.” Light, high-technology, shape-memory wires that move teeth faster and require fewer adjustments. Damon braces in Idaho will cost around $3,800 – $8,000 depending on the type of correction and length of treatment you need.
  • Clear Aligners – Common brands of clear aligners include Invisalign and ClearCorrect, both of which are a popular choice for many adults who don’t want to wear traditional braces. These customizable clear trays are worn during the day and night, except when brushing and eating. Clear aligners are meant for patients who need minimal work done, so not everyone will be a candidate for this type of orthodontic treatment. Additionally, if you choose to straighten your teeth with clear aligners, you should expect to visit the orthodontist every two to three weeks for a new tray. Clear aligners in Idaho can cost anywhere from $3,500 – $8,000.

Considerations for Adult Braces

Idaho Falls braces - tooth with a filling

Even though you’re never too old for braces, there are some considerations for people who decide to get braces later in life. While most bite and teeth issues can be solved via braces, there are some things that can only be fixed with surgery.  

By the time we reach adulthood some of the structural bones in our mouths have stopped growing. This means if a patient has a severe crossbite, underbite or overbite, they will most likely need surgery in addition to braces to remedy this problem. In addition to possible surgery, the following aspects need to also be taken into consideration:

  • Length of Time – The longer you wait to get braces in your life, the longer it may take to correct your bite and teeth issues. Of course, this will vary from case to case, but generally speaking, adults should expect to spend up to two years with their braces on in order to generate optimal results from their treatment plan. Young or old, a person should expect to wear their braces anywhere from 18 months to 36 months.
  • Dental Work – Adults will usually have had some type of dental work done at some point. This can include anything from a simple crown and fillings to a root canal and even dental surgery and implants. Your Idaho Falls orthodontist will take all of these conditions into consideration before prescribing the best orthodontic treatment plan for you.
  • Periodontal Disease – Almost half of America’s adults have a mild to severe form of Periodontal Disease. This disease wreaks havoc on the mouth and destroys bone and gum tissue. Braces can make this problem worse. At your consultation with Randall Orthodontics, we will determine whether periodontal disease is present. If the disease is present, we can help find a treatment plan that will allow you to wear braces once the disease is under control.

 Contact us today to relieve jaw pain, reduce tension headaches, or just want to straighten your smiley. We will walk you through the process. We will also answer any questions you may have about the treatment plans we offer.

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