Adult Braces: Q&A

Think you're too old for braces? Think again! Tom Cruise is just one of many famous faces who've embraced a metal mouth in adulthood.
Think you’re too old for braces? Think again! Tom Cruise is just one of many famous faces who’ve embraced a metal mouth in adulthood.

Not all of us are lucky enough to have naturally straight teeth. Whether you have one or many teeth out of place, chances are that you have considered braces. Some parents choose to get their children braces during adolescence, however, that is rapidly changing. In 2010, the number of adults in braces was up 23% from 1989, when the American Association of Orthodontists started tracking patients by age. Getting braces should require a lot of thought and patience as they can change the whole structure of your dental arch. You can check out this site for more information on dental arches: What is a dental arch? | Bell Harbour Dental.

If you are an adult who is considering braces to straighten your teeth, read this list of commonly asked questions and answers to help you better prepare yourself:

Is there a certain age limit for braces?
There is no age limit for braces. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can benefit from braces. If you have problems with your gums, braces might not be the best idea. The pressure braces put on your gums can make your issues worse. Keep in mind this varies case-by-case, so talk to your dentist to get the best recommendation.

What causes the need for braces?
Some orthodontic problems are genetic while others develop over time due to thumb- or finger-sucking, mouth breathing, dental disease, accidents or poor nutrition. Some adults who wear braces may have had them in the past and never wore their retainer causing their teeth to shift.

Will braces be tight and painful?
Having braces is like breaking in a new pair of shoes. After a short period of adjustment, braces are usually quite comfortable. Chewing gum tends to reduce soreness when it occurs.

How long will I have braces?
The time of treatment depends on the severity of the issue. Over and under-bites generally take longer to correct than simply straightening teeth. At your first orthodontic visit, your orthodontist will be able to give you a more accurate time frame.

Braces are a great way to gain confidence and get your smile looking its healthiest. If you think you might benefit from braces, schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your options.

Do you have advice for adults researching braces? Leave your words of wisdom in the comment section below.

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Sandi Perez
Sandi Ernst Perez, Ph.D., joined Delta Dental of Arizona in 2006 and has a dual role as vice president of community benefit and executive director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation. A champion for the mouth-body connection in health and wellness, she works to fulfill the Foundation's mission to improve the oral health of underserved and uninsured populations across the state by educating the public, increasing awareness and providing grants, leadership and technical assistance. Originally from Ohio, she has lived in Arizona since 1992 with her husband, two children (one still in braces) and four rescue dogs. That translates into 296 teeth to take care of! [Editor's Note: Sandi is no longer a current DDAZ employee.]