Is It Worth Getting Braces at 40?

Everyone wants a healthy, well-aligned, and attractive smile. However, getting such a smile seems easier for younger people than for older ones. It is because orthodontic treatment is associated with kids, teenagers, and young adults. Continue reading to learn if orthodontic treatment for adults aged 40 and above is worth it.

What Is Orthodontic Treatment?

It is a dental procedure to straighten or move teeth, improving their function and look. Orthodontic treatments focus on aligning a poor bite. They also correct crooked, crowded, impacted, twisted, overlapped, or gapped teeth.

Orthodontics in Katy utilizes various dental appliances and techniques. Your orthodontist may recommend palatal expanders, head gears, or braces. Braces are a common teeth straightening option that suits both kids and adults.

There are various types of braces suitable for different malocclusions and misalignments. Traditional braces contain metallic brackets. They are fixed permanently on teeth for the duration of treatment. Ceramic braces function like traditional ones but are less noticeable.

Clear braces or aligners are popular for people who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. They are made from a transparent material that is not easily noticed. In addition, clear braces are easily removed, allowing you to take them off for special occasions.

How Does Orthodontic Treatment Differ for Adults?

Braces work by putting pressure on teeth to adjust their position. This technique is applied to kids’ and adults’ teeth during orthodontic treatment. However, there are slighter variations in the processes since teeth and the jawbone change as you age. Below are ways orthodontic treatment differs for adults.

1. Longer treatment time

Orthodontic treatments work fast on kids’ and teenagers’ teeth because they are still developing. However, at 40, your teeth and jawbone are no longer growing. Also, the jawbone is more solid and dense. Therefore, the treatment will take longer at this age.

2. Intensive treatments

Fully developed and matured jawbones and teeth make correcting teeth more challenging. So, you will need more intensive therapies to get a well-aligned smile.

3. More compromised teeth

By the time you turn 40, you may have undergone several dental treatments. Your dentist may have used dental crowns, fillings, implants, or bridges to repair your teeth. Therefore, your teeth will be more compromised and vulnerable to cracking or chipping. Your orthodontist must consider these issues when creating a treatment plan.

4. Lifestyle habits

By this age, you may have habits that can affect the outcome of the orthodontic treatment. They include smoking, teeth grinding, tongue thrusting, and jaw clenching. Consequently, your orthodontist will work with other specialists to correct your smile.

5. Costly treatment

Most dental insurance policies do not cover orthodontics for adults. Therefore, financing your orthodontic treatment will be more challenging. However, you can consider other options to afford the treatment. For instance, you can ask your dentist for a personalized payment plan or get a personal loan.

6. More Motivated

Kids, teens, and young adults do not appreciate the time and finances used in orthodontics. Also, they do not want to bear the temporary discomfort of using braces. As a result, they sabotage their treatments. However, adults are more motivated and invested in achieving a straighter, more attractive smile. So, they will do whatever it takes to complete the treatment.

Is Adult Orthodontics Worth It?

Orthodontic treatment may be daunting for some adults. However, the benefits are worth it. Below are the advantages of orthodontics for adults.

• Correcting a bad bite and aligning your teeth improves the appearance of your smile. This improves your self-image and confidence, helping you in your career and social life.
• The treatment will align your bite correctly, preventing uneven wear on teeth.
• Orthodontic treatments treat pain and headaches caused by misaligned teeth.
• A straight smile will allow you to chew without difficulty improving your digestion. In addition, you will eat a wider variety of foods improving your nutrition.
• A misaligned smile increases the risk of decay, gum disease, teeth wear, and teeth shifting. When you get orthodontic treatment, you prevent these serious oral health issues.
• The treatments can help improve speech affected by misalignment or malocclusion.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatments are not restricted by age. You can straighten your smile even at age 40. Take advantage of the advances in orthodontics that make treatments comfortable and discreet. Contact us at Dr. Teeth Dental Care- Katy for options like clear aligners and tooth-colored braces.