Adult Orthodontics – Grafton, MA
It’s Never Too Late for a Straight Smile
Millions of adults would love to straighten their teeth, but they aren’t willing to wear metal braces to do it. For people in Grafton who fall into this category, they now have easy access to more discreet options that are still able to reliably correct crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth: Invisalign and clear/ceramic braces. Thanks to the team at Simply Orthodontics Grafton, adults are finally able to get the smiles they’ve always wanted while the people around them are none the wiser. To schedule a consultation to see which treatment would be the right fit for you, contact us today to discuss your options for adult orthodontics in Grafton, MA.
How is Adult Treatment Different from Younger Patients?
It’s actually possible to straighten the teeth at any age. Orthodontics is typically recommended for children because the bones in the jaw and face haven’t fully hardened yet, meaning they will respond much more quickly to orthodontic treatment. In adults, because these bones are set, shifting the teeth usually takes a little more time, but it is no less effective. When you come in for a consultation, your orthodontist will be able to give you an approximate timeline for your treatment so you’ll know what to expect.
What Adult Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?
While every orthodontic service we offer can be successfully used with an adult, there are two primary ones our older patients tend to gravitate to:
- Invisalign: Sleek, discreet, and unbelievably comfortable, Invisalign enables patients to correct their misaligned teeth and bites while keeping their daily appearance intact. Virtually-invisible aligner trays are used to shift the teeth instead of brackets and wires, and better yet, they are removable. This means a patient can take Invisalign out whenever it’s time to eat or brush their teeth. Because of this flexibility, this treatment is able to slip seamlessly into any lifestyle without requiring changes to someone’s diet or brushing habits.
- Clear/Ceramic Braces: These braces work just like regular ones, but they are specifically designed to have a subtle appearance. Rather than metal, the brackets and wires are made using see-through ceramic and tooth-colored materials, helping them virtually-disappear within the smile. They’re perfect for adults who have more advanced orthodontic issues that may be beyond the scope of Invisalign.
Adult Orthodontics FAQs
Am I Too Old for Braces?
There’s a common misconception that there is an upper age limit for braces. This is largely due to the fact that children, teenagers, and young adults are often seen with them, but the truth is that patients of all ages can benefit from straighter teeth and an aligned bite. So, whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us so we can learn more about your dental needs and smile goals. From there, we can determine if you’re a candidate for orthodontic treatment and, if you are, which one is best for you.
Which Orthodontic Treatment Is Right for Me?
We’re proud to offer several orthodontic treatment options to our patients, including clear/ceramic braces and Invisalign. Invisalign is ideal for patients with mild to moderate cases of malocclusion who are looking to straighten their teeth and align their bite without drawing any unwanted attention to their smiles. For patients with more severe cases, clear/ceramic braces are needed, which are still considerably more discreet than traditional braces. Ultimately, the best way to find out which one is right for you is by scheduling a consultation with us so we can conduct a comprehensive oral exam. From there, we can share our recommendations, help you make a decision, and create your custom treatment plan!
Do Braces Hurt?
To be honest… it’s normal to feel some soreness and pressure as your teeth begin to move into their ideal positions. The good news is that these sensations are only temporary. Plus, you can use cold compresses, take OTC pain medication, and eat soft foods to help alleviate them even sooner. Ultimately, some discomfort from time to time will be well worth it when you have a healthier and even more beautiful smile.
Will I Need to Wear a Retainer?
The short answer is “yes.” That’s because this appliance plays a crucial role in the retention phase of your treatment. Without it, your teeth could easily drift back into their previously misaligned positions in the months or years following your time with braces (this phenomenon is referred to as “orthodontic relapse”).
Can I Drink Coffee with Braces?
If you love starting your morning with a hot cup of coffee or sipping on a latte in the afternoon to get a little jolt of energy, we have good news: you can continue to drink this caffeinated beverage throughout your orthodontic treatment. Just make sure that you take your aligners off first if you have Invisalign, that you use a straw to help prevent dental discoloration, and that you keep sugar and other additives to a minimum to keep your teeth decay-free.