Are braces effective for adults?

However, in reality, more and more adults are choosing braces to improve crooked teeth, overbites, or malocclusions, according to the Cleveland Clinic health site.

Dr. Anne Clemons, a dentist in the US, said that braces do not depend on age but on each person's current oral health condition.

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Teeth can still move into adulthood.

Teeth don’t stay the same over time. Even if you had braces as a child, many adults find that their teeth shift back due to factors like tooth loss, teeth grinding, or changes in jaw structure.

At that time, braces once again become the appropriate option to restore balance and function to the teeth.

Adults can effectively treat conditions such as buck teeth, underbites, crossbites, open bites, protruding teeth, crowded teeth, spaced teeth or misaligned bites with modern orthodontic methods, said Ms. Clemons.

These problems not only affect aesthetics but also affect the ability to chew and pronounce.

Benefits of orthodontics in adulthood

A set of even, tight teeth not only makes your smile look more beautiful but is also easier to clean, thereby reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

According to Dr. Clemons, if you have a history of tooth decay or gingivitis but have now been treated and stabilized, you can still get braces.

When teeth are properly aligned, cleaning is easier, leading to better long-term oral health.

Popular orthodontic methods

Adults can choose one of two main methods: Traditional braces with brackets or using clear aligners.

Traditional braces consist of brackets and wires that are attached directly to the teeth, with common materials being metal or ceramic. Some people may choose lingual braces to reduce the appearance of the appearance.

Transparent trays are a modern, easy-to-remove method, providing convenience in daily life and hygiene.

Regardless of which method you choose, both work on the principle of using gentle and steady force to move teeth into their correct position on the jaw.

Things to Consider When Getting Braces as an Adult

While braces for adults are effective, they do come with some inconveniences. Moving teeth is always accompanied by a slight pain or soreness, especially in the early stages. Clemons says this feeling is normal and manageable.

In addition, braces make oral hygiene more complicated, requiring more time to brush and floss to prevent plaque and food debris.

During the time of braces, patients should also avoid hard, chewy or sticky foods such as hard candy, sticky rice cakes, and fruits with hard skins. Instead, people with braces should prioritize soft, easy-to-chew foods, cut into small pieces to limit damage to the braces.

In addition, the time it takes to wear braces in adults is often longer than in children because the teeth and jawbone are less flexible.