Getting braces is not just for kids anymore. Its not just kids anymore: today, teens and adults comprise a large portion of the ortho patient population. When it comes to those in need of Central Phoenix braces, the possibilities have definitely changed, for the better. With the latest technology in dentistry, and a range of discreet and effective treatment modalities, braces are more comfortable and convenient than ever regardless of your age.
This group has traditionally included the largest number of orthodontic patients, largely because this is the best time to correct crooked teeth. The jaw is still growing at this age, making orthodontic treatment more efficient and less invasive with quicker results. Teenagers who may be in need of braces for teens are usually those who have crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites or crossbites to correct. Yet, braces offer more than just improved appearance, but have the potential to add to better long-term oral health by resulting in a proper bite to avoid uneven wear, jaw pain, and even speech impairment.
Adults are also noticing how orthodontics can be in there best interest. American Association of Orthodontists statistics estimate that one in four current orthodontic patients in the US is over the age of 18. Either they were too late to the orthodontic game as kids, or their teeth have shifted since then (it happens when you get older, when you lose teeth, or because you didn’t wear your retainer very much). There are now a range of adult-friendly aesthetic alternatives to traditional braces for adults seeking Central Phoenix braces, including clear braces or clear aligners.
Appearance in treatment is one of the biggest concerns for teens and adults alike. Although traditional metal braces remain popular because of their strength and success rate, some patients feel self-conscious while wearing them. The good news here is that ceramic braces can also be used to provide a much less noticeable treatment due to tooth colored brackets which match the color of the teeth. And, more recently, clear aligners, like those by Invisalign, have become an increasingly popular alternative for their almost invisible appearance and ease of wear. These aligners are removable, which allows patients to maintain good oral hygiene and have their meals without restriction. However, clear aligners work best for cases of mild to moderate misalignment and demand that the patient is compliant with wear times of up to 20 to 22 hours daily.
Braces treatments are becoming more personalized in Central Phoenix. 3D imaging, digital impressions and computerized treatment planning to create incredible individually customized treatment for today’s teens and adults. Not only do these technologies improve the precision of tooth movement, but they also accelerate treatment duration and diminish the requirement for periodic in-person visits. To stimulate bone remodeling and facilitate tooth movement, accelerated orthodontics procedures such as vibration devices or micro-osteoperforations may be utilized in some cases.
Length of treatment may differ depending on the severity of the case and type of appliance used. The typical course of treatment for braces or aligners is 12-24 months. A series of aligners is worn for two weeks each, 20-22 hours a day, and at this stage it becomes very important to keep them moving the way you want them too. In adults, whose bone metabolism may be less fast-paced than it is in teens, treatment might take a bit longer. But with continued observation and collaboration, great outcomes can be attained at any age.
Braces are not only about looks or getting teeth straight. Crooked teeth or crowded teeth may become hiding places for plaque and food debris, that not even your toothbrush and dental floss can reach; leading to cavities and gum infection. (Read more about cleaning around braces to maintain better oral health.)Straight teeth are less susceptible to decay and gum disease because they collect less plaque. Correct positioning also maximizes equal biting forces that are distributed along the teeth, thereby minimizing the load on the jaw muscles and preventing related problems, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
For a lot of families and individuals, cost is also a factor. The cost of braces Central Phoenix varies due to a number of issues, such as the severity of the case, type of device, and how long it lasts. Traditional metal braces typically cost between $3,000 to $7,000, ceramic braces could cost $4,000 to $8,000 on average. The cost of clear aligners is generally competitive as well. Most ortho offices have payment plans, will help you file with your insurance, and offer financing to make things more attainable.
It’s essential to keep in mind that deciding to get braces is an investment in long-term health and self-esteem. Young people enjoy the advantage of correcting problems that could grow worse with age, and adults realize the opportunity to improve their appearance and function, often after declining to receive treatment for years. Orthodontic treatment is also more effective, subtle and convenient than ever.
If you are considering braces for you or your teenager, begin by making an appointment for a full consultation with an experienced orthodontist. They’ll look at how you bite, talk to you about how you’d like your teeth to look, and suggest the best plan for your particular case. Whatever the choice, whether that is metal along the lines of traditional braces, a more subtle configuration, ceramics or the virtually invisible removable aligners, professional guidance is vital to their safe and successful use.
In the end, whether you are a teen or an adult, braces provide a path towards better health, greater confidence and a better quality of life. With customized care, state of the art technology, and a variety of treatment options, a confident, beautiful smile is more attainable than ever with Central Phoenix braces.
