Braces for Adults![]() At Dr. Jeffrey Kashner Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves healthy and beautiful teeth regardless of their age. Our team of orthodontists is dedicated to providing top-notch care for patients of all ages. If you are an adult and are considering getting braces, continue reading to get some more information on adult braces. Traditional BracesWhen people think of braces, they usually envision the conventional hardware of brackets connected to the teeth that are connected by an archwire that applies pressure to the teeth. For adults, aesthetics are usually the main consideration when it comes to braces. Conventional braces come in many options to be as inconspicuous as possible. In modern times, braces are usually held in place with metal bands around the molars to anchor the archwire with just a single bracket on each tooth to connect to the archwire. While traditional braces seem as though they would be noticeable, there are a few tricks that dentists use to make them blend in with the teeth. For example, ceramic brackets that are the same color as your teeth can be used to make them more difficult to notice. Additionally, a white wire may be used as the archwire to match the color of your teeth. Other Types of BracesSelf-ligating braces are another option that eliminates the need for o-rings, which are a more noticeable part of the braces. Self-ligating braces attach directly to the hooks on the brackets. Because o-rings' purpose is to attach the archwire to the brackets, self-ligating braces do not need this additional part of the braces. Another option for adults is to get lingual braces. According to EEZ Planit, Lingual braces work the same way as traditional braces, but instead of being connected to the front of the teeth, they are connected behind the teeth. Since they are attached to the backside of the teeth instead of the front, they are much more difficult to notice, which for adults is a more attractive option. One drawback to lingual braces is that they are typically more expensive as they require a bit more customization than traditional braces. Clear Dental AlignersA more inconspicuous option for adult braces is skipping the traditional braces altogether and opting for aligners. Aligners are clear plastic trays that are molded to the shape of your teeth. The aligners fit directly on top of the teeth and apply a small amount of pressure the same way braces do to realign your teeth over time. Aligners are usually more expensive than traditional braces, but they are virtually impossible to notice unless somebody is examining your teeth closely. They are a more common choice for adults because of how hard they are to notice. ConclusionIf you are an adult and have misaligned teeth, there are several options available to you. You do not have to settle with crooked teeth just because you do not want to wear braces. If you are an adult and are considering braces, call Dr. Jeffrey Kashner Orthodontics at 253-630-3331 to set up an appointment today and see what our team can do to help you get the smile you want. |