Braces are a popular treatment option for people with teeth that do not meet correctly. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, more than four million individuals in the United States wear braces, 25% of them being adults.
However, despite being popular, many people still have questions about the best time to consider
clear braces. Even though there isn't a specific period to start thinking about these braces, it is beneficial to be aware of the differences between early, teen, and adult dental treatment options. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect from each level.
Early Treatment
The American Dental Association recommends that you begin the treatment process as early as possible, such as if your child has a high risk of tooth decay or dental injury due to severe biting problems. Doctors start this type of treatment in children between 6 and 8 years. This treatment will depend on the severity and nature of the teeth issue. If you decide not to start early treatment, it is still possible for a child or teenager to have braces placed later on in their life.
Teen Treatment
Studies show that more teens often use braces, and there are some benefits associated with this approach. For instance, young people are often more receptive to this type of treatment and will be less shy about wearing them in public.
You may want to consider starting braces when your child is in their late teen years if they have a severe case of malocclusion- although the same risks for oral disease still exist, it will reduce the risks for tooth decay since they are older and can take care of their teeth better.
Adult Treatment
The American Dental Association recommends that adults have the treatment done at around 20 years, although this is generally a best practice and not set in stone. Adults can still undergo treatment if they feel that they need it, although they should evaluate this case-by-case basis.
Adult treatment is slightly different than teen and early treatment because it is less likely to be covered by insurance and, therefore, more expensive. However, there are still some benefits to choosing this type of treatment. Adults tend to be more motivated when putting the braces on and keeping up with their daily treatments. Also, adults are more likely to be able to adjust to the feeling of the braces after a short period. As a result, the adult population has lower relapse rates than some other groups.
Where to Start
There are many different factors to consider when deciding when braces are necessary. The best time to consider clear braces for yourself is the same time when your dentist tells you that there is a need for the treatment. For this case, you may want to contemplate adult treatment options later on in life, depending on your situation.
How Long Does the Treatment Last?
The length of treatment depends on the severity of crooked teeth. The brackets are attached to a tooth tray, also known as a "brace." The doctors then align the teeth with the bracket. Individuals must wear braces until all teeth have been correctly aligned. A person can start wearing clear braces today and use them for years to come if needed.
Final Thoughts on Clear Braces Treatment
When deciding if braces are right for you, it is crucial to think about your oral health, teeth position, and bite alignment. If your teeth are poor, this may not be the best time to start treatment.
However, if you feel like your teeth are close enough to perfect and have been thinking about getting these braces off again, you should consider applying for clear braces as soon as possible. An early application will allow you to start receiving treatment much earlier than most people, which could lower costs and enhance the success of your treatment.
Regardless of how you need your teeth or smile to be in their best shape, don't hesitate to contact us today. We would love to help you by providing the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you need information about Invisalign, Braces, Kids Dentistry or Cosmetic Dentistry, we will put the power and decision making into your hands. Call us today to schedule your free consultation with our family dentistry team. Our team is ready to help you make the decisions you need regarding your life, smile, and health.
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