We typically associate braces with high school and middle school-aged children, but braces aren’t just for kids. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, around 25% of braces patients are actually adults, and this number is only expected to rise in the future. So if you are feeling strange about the possibility of getting braces as an adult, don’t. Millions of adults are embracing orthodontia and prioritizing their health and happiness by improving their smiles.
Why Do Adults Get Braces?
There are many reasons adults get braces. We all know that braces can improve the look of someone’s smile. You can’t put a price on confidence, and braces are giving adults the self-esteem needed to crush their goals at home and at work. Beyond aesthetic reasons, braces offer a variety of health benefits. Misaligned teeth can cause serious health problems like periodontitis, tooth decay, and jaw problems. Braces can preclude the dental situations that allow these issues to grow and thrive, ensuring healthier teeth for years to come.
What to Expect
If you’ve finally made the decision to invest in yourself and get braces as an adult, it can seem like a daunting task. However, your orthodontist should provide you with everything you need to know and answer any questions you may have. Before actually getting your braces on, your orthodontist will conduct an initial examination to determine which dental issues you are facing and what type of braces best suit your individual needs. During this initial visit, orthodontists will typically conduct X-rays, take dental impressions, and physically examine the inside of your mouth. After collecting this vital information, your orthodontist can create a treatment plan, and you are on your way to the smile of your dreams.
Getting Them On
The actual application process can also be unnerving, but working with an experienced orthodontist can ease any anxiety surrounding your big day. When applying braces, orthodontists typically start by cleaning and drying each tooth. They then apply an adhesive to the outside of each tooth to hold the brackets in place. After the brackets have thoroughly adhered, orthodontists then install archwires through the brackets holding them in place with rubber bands. While this process may cause some discomfort, after a few weeks of acclimation, most patients reported less pain and decreased sensitivity.
Types of Braces
While we generally recommend letting your orthodontist choose the best type of braces for your individual case, it is important to educate yourself on the different options available. There are three main types of braces popular for adults: metal, ceramic, and lingual. Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces on the market. While the most noticeable, they are extremely effective and can be cheaper than other options. Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces but are less noticeable due to their clear or tooth-colored appearance. These braces can be a great option for adults working in professional settings who want their braces to be as inconspicuous as possible. Lingual braces are another great option for adults looking to be discreet. With lingual braces, brackets are actually placed on the back of each tooth, instead of the front.
Cost
Braces are definitely considered a significant investment. At Greenspoint Dental, we’ve calculated the cost of traditional metal braces to be between $3,500 and $6,500, and ceramic braces generally range between $4,000 and $7,000. Lingual braces come at a heftier price tag, ranging between $8,000 and $13,000.
Sadly, many insurance companies do not pay for orthodontics after age 18, and even then, they typically only cover 50%. However, as more adults are getting braces, some companies offer adult orthodontics coverage. So, be sure to check your company’s dental plan coverage to see if orthodontic treatment is included.
Greenspoint Dental in Houston doesn’t want finances to stand in the way of your perfect smile. That’s why we offer personalized payment plans for orthodontic treatment.
Schedule an Appointment!
If you are an adult in Houston considering getting braces, Greenspoint Dental is happy to help you find the orthodontic treatment that will work best for your teeth. Reach out to our dedicated team of dental professionals to schedule an initial consultation. We care about your needs and can provide guidance and answers to any questions you may have. We look forward to hearing from you and providing you with the brightest and healthiest smile possible.
