Orthodontics or more commonly referred to as braces, focus on aligning teeth for a healthier, more confident smile. Starting as early as age 7, tooth alignment can address issues such as crowding, misalignment, and managing retained baby teeth caused by missing or impacted adult teeth (hypodontia).
Straightening teeth is a popular choice for patients of all ages and can be done using various techniques. Traditional options include removable or fixed braces, while modern methods like lingual braces or clear aligners offer discreet alternatives.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about getting braces.
Is the process of getting dental braces the same for adults as for children?
Absolutely! Age is not a barrier when it comes to aligning and strengthening teeth. As long as your gums and underlying bone structures are healthy, braces can work effectively at any age.
Modern orthodontics offers a variety of options to suit different needs. Traditional metal braces have evolved into more comfortable and discreet designs. Invisible braces, like ceramic or plastic ones, blend with your natural teeth thanks to their tooth-coloured or translucent materials. Lingual braces provide another discreet option, as they are placed on the inside of the teeth. Clear plastic aligners, custom-made and replaced every one to two weeks, are also a popular choice for a nearly invisible solution.
Today’s braces are designed to be more comfortable and less noticeable, making them a great option for anyone looking to improve their smile, regardless of age. Don’t forget, retainers may be required afterward to maintain your newly aligned teeth.
As adults become more conscious of their appearance, many consider braces to achieve a straighter, more confident smile. Treatment usually takes 6 to 24 months, with options like metal braces, clear ceramic braces, or clear aligners.
While braces may cause some discomfort, speech changes, or food restrictions at first, they are great at fixing crooked teeth. Adults need to be extra careful with oral hygiene, and in some cases, surgery may be needed for serious jaw issues. Overall, the benefits of a better smile and healthier teeth make braces worth considering.
Is the process of getting the dental braces painful?
Fitting braces usually takes under an hour and is not painful. Braces use brackets bonded to the teeth, with archwires to apply pressure for tooth movement. Different wires and elastic bands can be customised to target specific teeth. While some discomfort or pressure may occur after fitting or tightening, it’s normal as the teeth begin to move.
For how long does this usually last?
Once fitted with braces, patients may elicit a certain degree of discomfort ranging from some aches and tenderness on biting due to the immediate movement of the teeth; this is to be expected and varies from one individual to another. This normally wears off in a few days and normal pain killers help. Every time the brace is adjusted may bring about some discomfort but this depends on the adjustments made.
What changes do the dental braces bring about?
Dental braces offer four key benefits for teeth alignment and oral health:
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Crooked teeth and malocclusion (misaligned bite) often trap food, leading to plaque buildup—a leading cause of gum disease, tooth decay, and periodontal issues.
- Reduced Dental Stress: Misaligned teeth can cause uneven stress on certain teeth, leading to premature wear. Protruding teeth are especially vulnerable to damage, particularly during sports.
- Enhanced Functionality: Braces improve bite alignment, making it easier to bite, chew, and digest food while reducing jaw pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
- Boosted Confidence: Straightened teeth improve appearance, enhancing self-esteem and overall confidence.
For adults, motivation and patience are crucial to achieving desired teeth alignment results.
Why do you think adult dental braces are becoming more popular?
The growing popularity of adult braces stems from increased awareness through advertising, TV makeovers, and celebrities showcasing perfect smiles.
While childhood is ideal for orthodontic corrections, more adults are now seeking treatment to enhance their smiles and achieve excellent results. With people living longer, there’s a stronger focus on preserving teeth and improving appearance at any age.
A confident smile boosts self-esteem and leaves a lasting impression, making braces a key choice for adults looking to look and feel their best.
Is there still a stigma around dental braces?
No, the stigma around adult braces is a thing of the past. Modern orthodontics offers discreet, high-tech solutions, making braces more acceptable than ever. Studies show that straight teeth not only improve oral health but also enhance social confidence and life skills.
Today, wearing braces is seen as a commitment to personal self-improvement, especially among young adults. In fact, adults now make up nearly half of orthodontic patients, seeking the perfect smile they’ve always wanted.
What does a patient have to do before, during and after the treatment?
Patients should prepare for extra oral care with braces, as they can trap food and lead to plaque buildup. Brushing after meals, using mouthwash, and flossing daily are essential to maintaining oral health during treatment. After braces are removed, wearing a retainer is crucial to keep teeth in their new positions, especially during the first year, as it takes about 9 months for periodontal ligaments to adapt. Long-term, many patients wear removable retainers at night to maintain their smile. Retainers can be fixed, bonded to the back of teeth, or removable and discreet, with most orthodontists recommending a combination for best results.
Do dental braces impact your lifestyle?
Wearing dental braces can affect your lifestyle, but with preparation, adapting is easy. Be ready for reactions from colleagues or friends by planning confident responses. Prioritise oral hygiene by keeping a toothbrush handy and cleaning your braces daily. While some may feel self-conscious, braces are widely seen as a positive step toward improving your smile and well-being, making the temporary adjustment worthwhile.
Are there foods to avoid with braces?
Most foods that are moderately soft can be eaten by patients who wear braces. Chewing gum, nuts or nougat are not advisable as are sandwiches, toasted bread or crusty Maltese bread. Food has to be eaten carefully and sometimes broken into small pieces rather than bitten into.
Are there any health issues that could prevent an adult from getting dental braces?
Your medical and oral health is important. There are no medical contraindications other than medical conditions such as severe heart-valve disease, bleeding disorders, leukemia, severe uncontrolled diabetes, osteoporosis or a low bone density count.
Periodontal disease must be brought under control prior to any orthodontic treatment as this may aggravate the disease and life of the affected teeth.
How much does the treatment cost?
The prices of treatment depend on your whereabouts in the world and the cost of braces can also vary with the type of brace and if one or both arches are to be treated. In Malta, prices tend to be lower than those in the UK, Italy and the rest of mainland Europe. It is always advisable to contact the clinic for an orthodontic consultation to be examined properly by a specialist for a detailed account of all possible treatment options and their process and outcomes.
So remember that when it comes to straightening teeth, there is no age cut-off. If a better smile is something you really want, schedule a consultation with your dentist or an orthodontist to discuss your treatment options. As the saying goes, you’re only as old as you feel.
