If you’re unhappy with the straightness of your teeth, don’t worry, you’re far from alone. It is estimated that 60-75% of the world’s population has some form of malocclusion. This means they have issues with their bite, caused by crooked teeth or other alignment issues.
The great news is that there have never been more options for adults looking to boost their health and confidence with straighter teeth. Orthodontists can use invisible aligners and traditional braces to correct even severe issues.
Join us as we explore the best teeth straightening options you should consider.
The Benefits of Teeth Straightening for Adults
Let’s start with the obvious benefit of having straight teeth – a more beautiful smile.
All of us want to feel confident about flashing our pearly whites. But it turns out that the effects are about more than just feeling good about ourselves. A study has shown that an attractive smile leads to people treating you more positively and even greater employment success.
There are also many health benefits associated with teeth straightening.
First, straight teeth are easier to keep clean. When teeth are crooked, crowded, or overlap, it’s difficult to clean food residue out of all the tiny crevices. But when your teeth are correctly aligned, it’s much easier to give them a thorough clean.
Bacteria won’t build up as easily, and you’ll protect your teeth against plaque and tartar, which can lead to tooth decay.
Having straight teeth and a comfortable bite also makes it easier to talk and chew your food. Chewing food is a crucial part of the digestive process. You may find that digestive issues improve when you can break down your food more easily.
How Old Is Too Old for Braces?
There is no upper age limit for braces!
As long as your teeth and gums are in good condition, you can benefit from the following teeth straightening solutions. Even people in their sixties and older have been able to overcome misalignment issues they’ve struggled with for decades.
Teeth Straightening Solutions
The following are the best teeth straightening options available for adults. They’re all tried and tested, highly successful forms of treatment. Your choice will come down to a few factors, including the following:
- Cost
- Time
- Aesthetics (how they look during the process)
It’s not possible to take a one-size-fits-all approach to braces for adults. After examining you, your orthodontist will talk you through your treatment options. They’ll recommend the one that is the best fit for correcting your alignment issues.
Invisalign
Invisalign exploded onto the scene back in 1998 and 10.9 million patients had benefitted from it by the end of 2020. Invisalign for adults uses custom-made clear plastic aligners. They gradually move your teeth into their new positions.
You switch out the aligners for a new set according to the schedule given by your orthodontist. This is usually every one to two weeks.
For a mild case, you may only need around 12 trays to complete your treatment. If your malocclusion is more severe, you may need more aligners, which will mean a longer course of treatment. You’ll come into the orthodontist’s office periodically for them to check your progress.
Invisalign technology has developed over the years. It’s now suitable even for complex cases of malocclusion, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowding
- Underbites
- Overbites
- Crossbites
- Open bites
Invisalign also uses cutting-edge iTero scanning technology. This allows your orthodontist to create a detailed image of your mouth and plan your treatment. There’s no need to bite into trays full of sticky goop to get take impressions anymore!
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign is very discreet – most people won’t even notice that you’re wearing your aligners.
They also fit in with your busy lifestyle. You can simply remove them to eat, play sports, or for photos. All you have to do is quickly clean your teeth and aligners before putting them back in.
Invisalign trays are also very comfortable to wear, as they’re custom-made for your teeth. They apply gentle pressure and you’ll probably only feel it when you first put on your new trays. After that, you’ll forget you’re wearing them.
In terms of cost, they are usually a little more expensive than traditional braces. But many people find that the convenience and comfort far outweigh the additional expense.
Traditional Braces
It’s true that clear aligners are now incredibly popular. But traditional braces for adults are still the most common and often the fastest way to achieve your smile goals.
They come in different styles, including metal, gold, and clear options. Brackets are attached to your teeth. Metal wires between the brackets exert constant, steady pressure on the teeth to move them into their new positions.
You’ll usually need to visit your orthodontist regularly to have them adjusted. Self-ligating braces usually mean shorter appointments with the orthodontist.
They’re not as discreet as Invisalign, but they are effective at treating all kinds of malocclusion.
The challenge is keeping them clean. You cannot remove them to eat or clean your teeth. You’ll need to learn how to clean them thoroughly and commit to doing this throughout the entire process.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are a variation of traditional braces. They use clear brackets that are less obvious and can reduce feelings of self-consciousness. They are just as effective at correcting alignment issues as regular braces.
When they are paired with clear elastics, they’re almost invisible. If you’re looking for a discreet option but are not sure about Invisalign, clear braces could be a great option.
Get the Best Teeth Straightening Advice at Ello Orthodontics
There are many teeth straightening options on the market for adults these days. But the best teeth straightening treatments for most patients are Invisalign or traditional braces.
At Ello Orthodontics, Dr. Nguyen will be happy to examine you and advise you on the right teeth straightening option to correct your issues. If you’re ready, treatment can often start the very same day!
Why not call us at 346.449.7081 or reach out online to schedule an appointment today?
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