Are You Too Old For Braces?

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists cites that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and they want to feel better about their appearance. Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and now you can too.

We promise…you are not too old for braces.

The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same for both children and adults. The science of orthodontics relies on placing pressure on the teeth to change their position. Dr. Hook accomplishes this by attaching braces to the teeth to gently push them in the desired position. Although childhood is the ideal time to make changes in the positioning of the teeth, as long as you are healthy your teeth can be straightened at any age.

The thought of having braces may be discouraging. However, if you are like many adults, you’ve probably been dealing with crooked teeth, crowding, or a poorly aligned bite for a good majority of your life and these problems raise more than cosmetic concerns.

Crowded or overlapping teeth can be difficult to clean, making tooth decay and gum disease more likely. Teeth that don't come together properly when you close your jaws can cause chewing and swallowing problems. Poor tooth alignment can also make it difficult to pronounce certain sounds and can put excessive stress on your jaw muscles, causing facial pain.

Straight teeth are healthy teeth, which can help you avoid tooth loss and dentures later in life.

Why Adult Braces Are So Important

• Straight teeth function better, are easier to clean, and are less likely to get cavities.

• Teeth are crowded or spaced apart can cause tooth decay or gum disease.

• Improperly aligned teeth and jaws are at higher risk for jaw pain, headaches, and migraines.

As an adult, you might think that your options for having your teeth fixed are limited. Not true…today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs.

Traditional Silver Braces - These are the most common type of braces. Made of nickel-free high-grade steel, they are much smaller and more comfortable than those in the past.

Clear or Ceramic Braces - Made of porcelain or ceramic, these brackets are tooth colored and are less noticeable than traditional silver brackets.

Invisalign Clear Aligners - A technique that straightens your teeth without braces, using a series of clear, removable aligners custom-modeled to fit your teeth

Depending on your budget and the severity of your orthodontic problem, Dr. Hook will discuss your options with you to ensure your treatment plan fits your lifestyle.

Your questions answered…

1. Do braces take longer for adults? Average orthodontic treatment times falls somewhere between 16-18 months, but can sometimes take as long as 24 months. In cases of adult braces, the average length of treatment can be a bit longer depending on the orthodontic problem. 
2. At what age is it too late to get braces? The major advantage of treating irregularities at a young age is that orthodontic appliances are widely accepted in youth and ideal alignment can be achieved before adulthood. Most orthodontists agree, however, that it is never too late to get braces. 
3. How painful are braces for adults? Getting braces put on your teeth doesn't hurt. Within a few hours of having your braces placed you may begin to develop some soreness in your teeth and gums. This pain will probably last about a week and can be alleviated with an over the counter pain medication. 
4. Do braces change the shape of your face? Braces change the way your jaw and teeth fit together, creating better harmony throughout the lower half of the face. 
5. How will braces affect my daily activities? They won’t. Braces change a lot of aspects of your life, from eating to how you brush your teeth, but in the end it’s all for the better because once those braces are off, you are left with a beautiful smile.

At Hook Orthodontics, we recognize that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

 

Stop Hiding Your Smile. To learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics please contact one of our conveniently located offices in Mililani, Honolulu, or Kailua to schedule an appointment. We understand that you have a busy schedule and we will work with you to make sure each office visit is as convenient as possible.

Hook Orthodontics is open Monday through Friday from 8am – 5pm. The days of our offices vary by week and Saturday appointments are available upon request. Please call for availability.