5 Things to Know When Getting Braces for Adults

An attractive smile is an important part of feeling confident, but many adults who might be interested in getting braces don’t want to deal with the challenges of wearing metal brackets. We’ve worked with thousands of patients over the years to help them improve their smiles, so we have an idea of the questions most people have about getting braces for adults. Read on for five things to keep in mind when getting braces as an adult.

1. It Takes Time

According to Humana, most adults need approximately three to four years to complete a treatment plan. More extensive corrections often take longer. If you’re thinking about opting for an invisible option like Invisalign, keep in mind that you’ll need to wear the aligner for at least 20-22 hours per day to obtain optimal results.

2. Braces can be Affordable

Braces usually cost anywhere from $4000 to $6000, but there are tons of ways to finance and pay for your orthodontic treatment. Insurance covers the cost of some orthodontic work, and many practitioners offer patients installment plans so you can spread your payments out over time.

3. You Have Choices

Today’s orthodontists have several ways to straighten teeth, from metal brackets to removable aligners. Modern metal brackets tend to be lighter and thinner than those you might remember from your teen years. Other options include clear and porcelain brackets that make it difficult for others to see the semi-permanent hardware on your teeth. Many adults opt for removable options such as Invisalign aligners.

4. Your Overall Oral Health Will Improve

Creating a healthy smile is at the root of what orthodontists do for patients. So it makes sense that your oral health will improve after orthodontic treatment. Once your teeth are correctly positioned, you’ll be able to better reach all your tooth surfaces when brushing or flossing. Many patients report that food collects less easily in their teeth after wearing braces.

5. It’s Super Convenient

Whether you choose traditional metal braces or a modern invisible aligner system, straightening your teeth can be extremely convenient. Adjustments only take a few minutes, and most patients find that the time commitment isn’t that high once they get started with the process. The treatment process goes faster when patients comply with the program — that means making all of your appointments as scheduled or wearing your aligner as advised. Failure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions or to attend appointments can slow the treatment process and increase costs.