When an adult needs braces for orthodontic treatment, they don’t tend to get very excited. We get it: It can feel like a bother to wear braces, especially when you grew up noticing the big and bulky kind. But there’s lots of good news, too. If you’re an adult considering braces, here’s what you should know.
First, the bigger braces of the 1990s and early 2000s are long gone. At Beauchamp Orthodontics, we only use small form factor braces. No matter if you choose metal braces or clear braces (also known as ceramic braces) you will only get these compact, low-profile braces others might not even notice.
But the news gets better from there.
Many adults are choosing clear aligners for their orthodontic treatment.
And once you hear more about Invisalign®, the clear aligners we offer, you might decide they’re right for you.
Clear Aligners Are the Perfect Option for Adults (and Older Kids, Too!)
Clear aligners are more popular than ever for a whole range of reasons. First, teens and kids are qualifying for Invisalign® thanks to the next generation of clear aligner technology. It’s no longer necessary for someone to have every permanent tooth in place before they can use clear aligners as an orthodontic treatment.
For adults, clear aligners are a natural fit.
Not only do they look great, but they will also fit into your busy lifestyle like no other option can.
Here’s why:
Clear Aligners Offer the Most Discreet Option for Orthodontic Treatment
Clear aligners are the best option for adults and fashion-conscious youngsters who are concerned about how braces look and feel. They are even more sleek than clear braces, which utilize some of the same materials. Invisalign® as the name suggests is so discreet, you might not even be able to see the aligner in the mirror.
Because you can see your teeth through your clear aligners (and you can also remove them for brief periods at any time) you also have the opportunity to see your results in the mirror much sooner. This helps adults who want to feel more confident, all without using an orthodontic treatment that’s obvious to others.
You Get the Same Benefits from Clear Aligners as You Do with Braces
Almost all orthodontic conditions other than the most severe tooth gaps and misalignment can be treated with Invisalign®. For most patients, clear aligners will resolve orthodontic issues on the same timeline as braces. In some cases, these aligners might actually work faster than braces do.
Before you choose between braces and Invisalign®, Dr. Beauchamp will be glad to give you a full orthodontic exam. That way, you’ll know all the details of your condition and what your options are. You can choose from metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners to meet your orthodontic needs.
You Spend Less Time in Your Local Orthodontist Office with Clear Aligners
With metal braces or clear braces, you’ll need to stick to a regular schedule of checkups and braces adjustments. That’s because the wires on your braces need to be periodically adjusted to make sure your teeth are moving to the treated position. Generally, you’ll have more follow-up visits around the start and end of treatment.
Clear aligners are different. They are made especially for your mouth, usually using digital photos. They do not need to be changed or adjusted throughout treatment, you’ll simply get new sets as time progresses. As a result, you spend much less time here in our office.
Cleaning Clear Aligners Is Even Easier than Cleaning Braces
To be successful with Invisalign®, you will need to wear them most of every day. However, you can take them out for a brief period of time to clean them. You have enough time each day to brush them or soak them. You’ll never have to worry about the repairs you may need with braces since there are no brackets or wires that can break.
This can be incredibly convenient for adults because it also means you don’t have to pass up your favorite foods that are off-limits with braces. Instead, you can eat these foods by taking out your clear aligners for a short time and then brushing your teeth with your aligners out.
You Can Play High-Impact Sports More Easily, Too
The ability to take out your clear aligners at any time has other benefits, too. You can play any sports you wish. There’ll be no risk to your clear aligners during play, since all you have to do is take them out and switch them for an athletic mouthguard. You can play for hours without affecting your treatment timeline.
Schedule your consultation today to learn more or get started with Invisalign®.