Adults often let their smiles fade because they believe the only help out there for a bad bite is traditional braces. If that's your only concern, then you shouldn't worry. There are many orthodontic solutions out there for adults. Even the traditional solutions have more adult options for you to consider these days.
Old Options Made New
Adults often shy away from braces. They don't like the look and they don't want others to see them in their day-to-day life wearing them. If your dentist or orthodontist recommends traditional braces rather than another solution, ask about the different options currently available.
Traditional wire braces aren't strictly about shiny metal anymore. Here are a few of the options available to you.
Clear braces – These can vary in just how clear they are. There are tooth-colored braces, such as those made of ceramic. Or, the braces may use clear brackets. Even the wires can blend in with your tooth color. In this way, you can have the full benefit of traditional braces without having to advertise the fact.
Colored braces – Maybe you want to make a statement with your braces, rather than hide them. You can use colored braces for just that purpose. Occasionally you can mix and match some of the transparent options with the colored options to create a unique look.
Lingual braces – These types of braces put the brackets and wiring behind the teeth, instead of in front. This can help to effectively render them invisible. There are also braces that wrap between the teeth, rather than strictly in the front or back.
Mini-braces – As you can likely tell from the name, these braces are similar to traditional braces, but with much smaller brackets.
There are more types besides these and combinations of types when it comes to traditional braces. Your options will depend mainly on your specific bite problem. However, there are more options outside of traditional braces.
Clear Aligners — the Most "Invisible" Braces
Clear aligners have grown in popularity over time. They offer many of the benefits that come with braces, but are far less intrusive. In fact, they're removable.
Best of all, for most adults, is that they're clear. They work faster than braces as well. But it's important to know clear aligners are typically only effective for mild cases of malocclusion.
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign braces, are more convenient than traditional braces. You can straighten your teeth without a lot of the hassle and discomfort that comes with fitting, readjusting, and becoming accustomed to traditional braces.
Hybrid and Cosmetic Solutions
There are many more orthodontic solutions. It's possible to get partial braces or go through an advanced program for straightening your front teeth in a short amount of time. There are also purely cosmetic solutions, which don't do much for your bite, but can still make your smile look good for a time.
While there are tremendous amounts of options out there for adults with a misaligned smile, you have to do what works best for you. Listen to your dentist. It's possible you need traditional braces. Just know traditional braces come in a variety of modern configurations. If you would prefer clear aligners, ask your dentist if they will work for you.
