Nearly four million U.S. residents have braces. Believe it or not, some of those people are adults. Per the American Association of Orthodontists, between 2010 and 2012 adult braces patients increased by up to 14%. That is a record high of 1,225,850 patients 18 years of age and older.
Why Are Adults Getting Braces?
There are many reasons why adults are seeking care from an orthodontist. Maybe they were not able to get braces when they were younger. A third of adults getting treatment had braces as a child or teen. Their teeth shifted because they did not follow through and wear their retainers as they should have.
There Is a Surge in Adult Orthodontics
So, why is there a surge in adults interested in teeth straightening now? Mainly knowledge, accessibility, and innovation. Today there are more options for braces than there were before. You can still get traditional metal
braces. However, now there are Invisalign braces too. Having a clear option may be the right course of treatment for you.
Now there is a spotlight on protective retainers. They are meant to keep your teeth healthy and straight after you have had orthodontic care. Retainers are fully customized to fit your straightened teeth. No matter your retainer needs, your orthodontist will work with you to meet them.
Another reason for the surge is the fact that more insurance companies are covering braces for adults. Treatment is now more feasible financially than before. Overall, you will benefit from beautifully aligned teeth that boost your self-confidence and protect your health.
Innovation Has Paved the Way
Advances in orthodontics mean treatment times are faster. You do not have to hide your smile or accept flaws in your teeth alignment or smile. Treatment methods are available that are customized to fit your unique needs that are also very discrete.
Invisalign being one of them. Clear braces are the answer for many working adults. You can straighten your teeth while continuing to work without the treatment being noticed.
The More You Know…
Today, adults have the opportunity to be more informed about orthodontics. It is understood that braces are a part of overall health and staying healthy. Having a beautiful smile may be one of the reasons adults want to straighten their teeth, but it’s not the only reason.
Misaligned teeth and crossbites trap food in teeth and allow plaque to grow faster making you even more susceptible to decay and the negative effects of gum disease. Crooked teeth can cause wear on tooth enamel in certain places and may also cause teeth to weaken over time. TMJ/TMD pain is also another reason to get braces. A misaligned bite can become painful later in life. Orthodontic treatment can help with all of the above.
Adult Braces Are Easier to Obtain
Adult braces are even more popular now because they are much easier to get. With advances in technology, medicine, and science adult patients can enjoy innovative products, more efficient treatments, and reduced costs. What’s stopping you from making an appointment?
You Can Afford Braces Now
Maybe your parents could not afford the cost of braces when you were a child. Now you can. Many dentists offer ways to help you cover the cost of your braces. This life-changing process that was once a financial challenge is more accessible to many adults.
Contact Your Local Orthodontist
Your local orthodontist is excited to see you and offer you treatments that will give you the best smile. Schedule a free consultation by visiting their website and completing an online form, or give them a call. Would you prefer a virtual consultation? Simply request a live video consultation using your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Your healthy, gorgeous smile awaits.
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