Gone are the days when braces and orthodontic treatments were just for teenagers. Today, about 32% of patients receiving orthodontic treatment in the U.S. and Canada are adults, marking a drastic shift in dental care trends. This rise in adult orthodontics isn’t just about getting a picture-perfect smile; it’s a journey toward better dental health and self-confidence.
As more adults turn to orthodontic options, the industry is evolving with innovative, less visible, and faster treatment methods. Whether it’s traditional braces reimagined or the latest in clear aligners, adult orthodontic treatments are expanding with exciting possibilities and promising outcomes.
Breaking Down the Stigma
Historically, a stigma was attached to adults with braces, often seen as a step unsuitable beyond the teenage years. However, with advancements in dental technology and a growing emphasis on oral health and aesthetics, adults are now more open to orthodontic treatment.
Celebrities and public figures openly sharing their experiences, from Miley Cyrus’s lingual braces to Tom Cruise’s red carpet retainer, have also played a role in normalizing adult orthodontics.
Traditional and Modern Orthodontic Options
One of the key factors contributing to the rise of adult orthodontics is the variety of available treatment options. However, if you are considering orthodontics, you should be prepared for a commitment.
Treatment times can vary, ranging from 18 months to 3 years, depending on the case’s complexity and the chosen treatment method. Discussing all options with your dentist to understand the best course of action and what to expect in terms of time and investment is essential. Some of the most popular choices include:
Metal Braces
In some cases, adults have avoided orthodontic treatment as kids, only to find that their malocclusions and misalignments have worsened. Complex issues such as rotated teeth, extreme crowding, and overbites need to be addressed with metal braces. The brackets, archwires, and elastic bands provide the right amount of tension and force to the teeth to correct orthodontic problems quickly and effectively.
Fortunately, traditional metal braces have evolved in recent years, with modern versions featuring smaller brackets and less noticeable wire materials. This offers adults a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing orthodontic option. With reduced visibility, increased comfort, reliability, and affordability, metal braces have become popular for adults seeking to achieve a straighter smile and improved oral health.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces, particularly among adults who want a more discreet orthodontic solution. Using clear, removable aligners, , Invisalign offers a nearly invisible treatment option that allows adults to achieve a straighter smile without the noticeable look of metal braces.
The appeal of Invisalign to adults lies in its virtually invisible design and removable nature. The clear thermoplastic aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position. And, since you only need to wear them for 22 hours a day, you can remove them when you eat, drink, and brush your teeth, making them a convenient and practical choice for adults with busy lifestyles.
Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation Today!
It’s never too late to invest in your smile. With various options available, adults no longer have to compromise on aesthetics to achieve the dental health and confidence that come with perfectly aligned teeth.
If you’re an adult considering orthodontic treatment, now is the time to explore your options and take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted. Schedule your consultation at Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center today!