If you have always wished that your smile were straighter, you might think that you lost your chance to have braces after your teenage years. Maybe the thought of having metal braces in your mouth just doesn’t appeal to you, or maybe you’re afraid of the discomfort at this time in your life. The good news is that braces for adults are common and there are several different options to suit your needs. Take a look at these frequently asked questions and see if you might be ready to look into braces for adults.
Won’t Braces Look Unprofessional?
There are a lot of reasons why someone might choose not to have metal braces; one of them is that there is a stigma of unprofessionalism that can go along with them. Of course, this depends on your job and your age, but if you feel as though you’d look unpolished in the workplace with metal braces, then there are other options to consider, including ceramic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign.
Are Lingual Braces Uncomfortable?
In a word, yes, they can be, but the discomfort is mainly in the beginning, when your tongue is getting used to the braces. All braces come with an element of discomfort in the early days. If you have traditional metal braces or ceramic braces, the discomfort tends to be on your inner lips and inner cheeks. With lingual braces, however, it occurs on your tongue. This can make talking and eating painful. The good news is that you will adjust to them within a week or two.
Is Invisalign Right for Me?
Only your dentist or orthodontist can answer that question, because it varies from person to person. If you have a mild overbite, a space between your front teeth, or crooked incisors, then Invisalign could work for you. If you have a more severe malocclusion, however, you might need to go a more traditional route. A consultation with a dental professional can tell you whether this type of orthodontic treatment is right for you.
If you are looking into the possibility of braces for adults, give our office a call for a consultation or to be referred to an orthodontist in the area.