Can Adults Over 40 Get Braces?

You frequently see children and teenagers with braces to realign their teeth, but what about adults? Did you miss your opportunity to achieve a straighter smile? Not at all! Just because you didn’t get braces in middle or high school doesn’t mean that the opportunity has passed you up. You are never too old to begin working towards the goals you have for your smile. Continue reading to learn some of the benefits of braces for adults.

No Age Limits

There is no age that is too old when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Pre-teen and teenage years are an ideal time to align teeth because the patient is still growing, but braces are still very effective at moving the positions of the teeth in adulthood. If you are unhappy with the current appearance of your smile due to bite issues or misalignment, there is no reason that you shouldn’t take steps to improve your teeth.

Better Self-Esteem

Your confidence affects many areas of your life. Whether you are trying to expand your social circle, attending job interviews, or on the dating scene, having a beautiful, perfectly aligned smile can help you to feel more confident and achieve your goals. Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you, so having beautiful pearly whites will do nothing but help with your first impressions!

Improved Dental Health

Having orthodontic treatment isn’t just about appearance. Having straight teeth can also improve your dental health. When your teeth are misaligned, it can be difficult to clean them properly when you’re brushing and flossing. With more food debris and plaque left behind, you are more likely to experience tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues than someone who has aligned teeth. By correcting misalignment now, you can prevent the need for additional, pricy dental work in the future.

Multiple Orthodontic Treatment Options

Traditional metal braces are highly effective when it comes to correcting misalignment, but not all adults want to show off metal brackets and wires throughout the duration of their treatment. There are more discreet options available, like ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligners. This way, you can work towards a straighter smile without it being so noticeable. During your initial consultation with your orthodontist, you can discuss which teeth-straightening option best meets your needs.

You are never too old to improve the appearance and function of your smile. Whether you are 14 or 40, braces could give you the pearly whites you’ve been dreaming of!

About the Author

Dr. Patricia A. Simon is an experienced orthodontist who has been practicing for over 25 years! She earned her dental doctorate from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine before completing her orthodontic residency at Boston University. Later, she completed her Fellowship in Craniofacial and Dentofacial Abnormalities at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. If you are an adult interested in orthodontic treatment, she’ll be happy to help you achieve a straighter smile! To learn more about braces for adults or to schedule a consultation at her office in Dallas, visit her website or call (214) 826-9000.