Have you ever thought that you’d love to have your teeth a bit straighter but then caught yourself saying that you’re too old for that? In dentistry, older age is not a deciding factor in whether you can have straighter teeth or not.
Can you really move teeth at any age?
Yes, your teeth have a unique ability to be able to move. This is due to the fact that your bone and gums and teeth continually adapt and settle around any bony changes and functional changes that occur over time. We can harness this ability and move your teeth into different positions at any stage of life. But your teeth, gums and bones do need to be healthy.
But what if I really don’t want to have brackets on my teeth?
Luckily, we now have Clear Smile Aligner technology close at hand. This is a system whereby a number of clear, plastic aligners are made for your teeth. These will physically move your teeth a little with each consecutive aligner. The severity of your dental issue will dictate how many aligners you might need. Each aligner is worn for 2 weeks and then swopped to the next consecutive aligner. This is done until your treatment is complete and your teeth are nice and straight. So the treatment costs will depend on the number of aligners that you need. So the more severe the case, the more it will cost.
I don’t mind putting fixed brackets on my teeth. Are they better?
Fixed brackets definitely are a necessity in certain cases. At Enamel we use clear brackets with white-coated wires to make them the most aesthetic type of fixed braces as possible. Putting fixed braces on will give you a really good result and allow you to get the smile you deserve at a more affordable price (in some cases).
Will my teeth move again after adult orthodontics?
Teeth will always have the propensity to move due to many factors. Thus, after your treatment we will insist that you have either a bonded or a removable retainer. This will ensure that your teeth stay in the position we have moved them to as much as possible.
What do I need to do if I think I need Adult Orthodontics?
Book a consultation with one of our skilled dentists. We will take photos and 3D intra-oral scan to help us diagnose your dental issue and help to create a personalized treatment plan. You are never to old to have your Power Smile!
By Dr Sheryl Smithies
Associate Dentist at Enamel Dentistry
