Malocclusion, more commonly referred to as a “bad bite,” is when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet or align with the mouth closed. It’s one of the most common dental problems; according to Dental Tribune, it affects about 60% to 75% of the world’s population. Because of its prevalence, 21 million people, including adults, undergo orthodontics to correct such issues.
Today, orthodontics for adults has become more accessible, thanks to innovations and improvements in dental technology.
So, even if you’re already in your 20s, 30s, or even 50s or above, you can get adult orthodontics treatment. In short, there’s no age limit to enjoy adult braces benefits and perks.
In this guide, our team at Ross Orthodontics in Greenville, NC, will explore the top orthodontic options for adults. Read on to discover what they are and their benefits.
Types of Orthodontic Braces for Adults
When you hear the word “braces,” the first thing that likely pops into mind is the type made of stainless steel brackets and wires. It’s understandable, as traditional metal braces are the oldest type of modern orthodontic treatment, making them the most well-known. However, they’re no longer your only option nowadays; you can get them in more subtle, champagne-colored, or even clear versions!
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets glued to the front surface of the teeth. A stainless steel wire, called “archwire,” goes through the center of each bracket and connects them. Rubber bands, known as “elastic ligatures,” wrap around each bracket to secure the archwire and keep it from sliding or popping out of place.
Elastic ligatures are available in varying colors, so you can choose whichever suits your tastes best.
Once placed, the braces will start applying pressure to the teeth and jaw, gradually causing them to move to better positions. Your orthodontist in Greenville, NC, will tighten the archwires regularly. Regular adjustments help ensure there’s always enough pressure to help shift the teeth and jaw.
Rhodium Braces
Rhodium braces work like traditional braces, except they have rhodium-coated brackets. Their silver matte finish helps minimize reflection and shine. Since they’re less reflective than bare stainless steel, they have a more subtle appearance than traditional metal braces.
Iconix Braces
Iconix braces also use stainless steel brackets and archwires. However, their brackets have a champagne-colored coating, giving them a more “elegant” look than plain stainless steel. You can also ask your orthodontist to match them with clear ligatures and gold wires for an even more aesthetic appearance.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic or “clear braces” are the most aesthetic orthodontic braces for people not born with perfectly straight teeth. They consist of tooth-colored ceramic brackets, not metal. Because of their color, they blend better with the rest of the teeth, offering the most subtle option while retaining the functions of traditional braces.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, made of durable, see-through plastic, are among the most recent additions to orthodontic treatments. Because of their materials, these oral appliances are the least noticeable of all teeth-straightening treatments.
Unlike orthodontic braces, clear aligners are removable, although you’d have to wear them most of the time. You’ll also get instructions from your orthodontist in Greenville, NC, about switching to new aligners every week or two.
Benefits of Orthodontics for Adults
Now that you know more about your orthodontic treatment options, let’s discuss why you should consider them. Here are some of the top reasons and benefits of undergoing teeth straightening treatment, even if you’re now an adult.
Improved Oral Hygiene
Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean because their improper positions create more crevices and niches. Plaque and tartar can also build up in these hard-to-reach areas.
Once you have straighter teeth, you can clean them better and more thoroughly.
Reduced Oral Disease Risk
Over time, unremoved plaque and tartar can lead to tooth cavities. Also known as caries or tooth decay, cavities are among the most common oral diseases in the United States. According to the U.S. CDC, untreated dental caries affect about one in four American adults aged 20 to 64.
Plaque and tartar buildup can also contribute to gum irritation and periodontal disease. Like tooth decay, gum disease is painful and a leading cause of tooth loss. It’s also prevalent; according to the National Library of Medicine, nearly half of adults in the U.S. have some degree of gum disease.
Since straighter teeth are easier to clean, they can help reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Optimal Teeth and Jaw Function
When the teeth and jaw don’t align properly, biting, chewing, and speaking may become more challenging. Such misalignments may also place unnecessary pressure, force, and strain on the teeth and jaw. Over time, these issues can lead to oral, jaw, and facial pain and abnormal tooth wear.
So, why not invest in orthodontic treatment before those worse problems occur? The sooner your treatment starts, the sooner you can reap the benefits of having straighter teeth and a proper bite.
Increased Self Confidence
Misaligned teeth and a bad bite can make you feel overly conscious and force you to hide your smile. The longer this goes on, the lower your self-esteem and the less confident you may become. Low self-confidence and self-esteem can negatively impact your mental health, as pointed out by Verywell Health.
All those should be good enough reasons to get a confidence boost with braces.
Enjoy the Health Perks of a Straighter Smile
As you learned in this guide, orthodontics for adults are no longer limited to traditional metal braces. You can now opt for rhodium, Iconix, ceramic braces, or clear aligners. You also learned that having straighter teeth isn’t just about having a pleasant smile; it can also help your oral and mental health.
If you’re ready to reap the benefits of an orthodontic smile makeover for adults, Ross Orthodontics will be happy to help! Our caring team and highly experienced orthodontist, Dr. Ross, have a combined experience of 170 years in orthodontic care.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment or to learn more about how we can help you achieve a healthier, straighter, and more dazzling smile!