Gone are the days when braces were solely associated with teenagers and adolescents. The field of orthodontics has evolved significantly, and today, people of all ages in Allentown are embracing the idea that it’s never too late to achieve a straight and healthy smile. Whether you’re a young professional, a parent, or a retiree, orthodontic treatment in Allentown can transform your oral health and overall well-being.
What Age Is Too Old for Braces?
To get braces or Invisalign, your teeth must be in relatively good shape, with no gum disease, decay, or oral health problems. You also have to have a desire to want a better smile. Braces require personal commitment, whether you opt for traditional brackets, wires, or the newer tray alignment systems.
With traditional braces, you will have some dietary restrictions and challenges with oral hygiene, but the braces are mounted to your teeth, so you can’t forget them. There are no dietary restrictions with tray systems, and oral hygiene is easy, but you can accidentally forget them occasionally because they are removable.
If you think you want to have braces to align your smile, but haven’t decided on the type, let’s explore your options.
How Do Braces Work?
Both braces and Invisalign perform the same function of aligning teeth, but they accomplish results in slightly different manners. One is quite visible, and the other almost invisible, which may also play a role in your choice.
Traditional Brackets and Wires
Traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces work similarly, involving a bit of physics. The orthodontist affixes brackets to your teeth and then threads a wire through each bracket. The archwire is tightened, which creates tension. The tension builds a force that works to pull your teeth into alignment.
As the orthodontist makes adjustments using the archwire, they continue directing the tooth movement toward proper alignment. The brackets and wires guide the teeth into position throughout the treatment period.
Clear Tray Alignment Systems
Unlike braces that pull teeth into alignment, tray aligners use gentle pressure to push teeth into the proper positions. Tray aligners are custom-fit to slide over the patient’s teeth. Each set of aligners works to apply gentle pressure consistently to shift teeth. Constructed in sequenced sets, each set transitions teeth to slightly different positions throughout treatment.
Although they work under different physics principles, the result is the same — a properly aligned smile. Tray alignment systems are more patient-centred and require the patient to wear the trays consistently to avoid delaying the treatment period.
Options for Adults — Pros and Cons for Each
As with most things in life, adult treatment in Hamburg come with a list of pros and cons to consider while making your choice. Some drawbacks may mean a no-go for you, while others may elicit a shrug and an “I can deal with that” attitude. Whatever your final decision is, Bob Bryan, DDS, will work to help you discover your dream smile.
Traditional Metal Braces
Pros
- Effective on minor to major malocclusion
- Work Quickly
- Affordable
- Always working (you can’t remove them)
- Durable
- Smaller, more comfortable brackets
- Very reliable
Cons
- Very visible
- Adult treatment usually takes longer
- Require periodic adjustment
- Has some dietary restrictions
- Oral hygiene is challenging
Clear Ceramic Braces
Clear braces work just like traditional braces. The most significant difference is the brackets, which are clear and less visible. Clear brackets blend with the natural colouring of your teeth, making them a frequent choice for conscientious adults. Although durable, they are slightly more fragile than traditional brackets.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a transparent tray alignment system quickly becoming the most popular adult treatment. The most significant reason is the near invisibility of this treatment method.
Pros
- Removable trays
- Effective on almost all malocclusion
- Very comfortable
- Easier oral hygiene
- No dietary restrictions
- Nearly invisible
Cons
- Removable trays (you can forget to put them on)
- Affordable, but slightly higher cost than braces
- Requires diligence
Generational Influence Means Premium Care
Dr Bob Bryan is the second to occupy this office. His father, Dr William Byran, served the same community. Following in his father’s footsteps, Dr. Bob Bryan has added newer technology and incorporated advancements in orthodontics.
This means for patients the hominess of a family practice that is committing to bringing you the best in orthodontic care. Dr William Bryan left a legacy of strong ethical beliefs today, more than 50 years after opening his doors.
You’re Never Too Old for Braces
Although you are never too old to get braces, there are some life changes that you should consider. First is the aesthetics. Metal braces are apparent. If you work in a corporate environment, do presentations, or work closely with co-workers, this may affect your “work face.” Although many co-workers will see it as a positive to improve yourself, there will always be that one person in the crowd.
On the other hand, Invisalign is almost invisible, and unless you tell co-workers, most won’t even know you have them. The changes are subtle as your teeth shift, so they will think you always had a straight smile after treatment unless you have something noticeable like a gap in the front.
How Braces Will Affect Your Life
Braces can be life-changing whether you are a teen or a full-grown adult. Although the looks of a straight smile can be incredible, there are additional benefits.
Straight teeth promote better chewing ability. That, in turn, leads to better digestion. When your food is chewed more efficiently, it is easier to digest, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients. Better nutrient absorption means better overall health.
Believe it or not, your teeth can also contribute to sleeping difficulties. By aligning your smile, your ability to breathe while sleeping may improve, creating more restful sleep periods. Better sleep leads to better health.
As you can see, braces may be a cosmetic procedure, but the overall health benefits mean they are a wise decision no matter what age you are. If you’re asking, “Is 40 too old for braces?” the answer is “NO!” You are never too old to consider doing something to help your entire body be healthier.
Bob Bryan Orthodontics for the Whole Family
With offices in Hamburg and Allentown, Pennsylvania, Dr Bob Bryan Orthodontics can help with braces for the entire family. Whether you have a child needing a first orthodontic consultation at seven, a teen that needs braces, or you want to talk about your smile, we can assist. Book your orthodontic appointment now.
