Number of adult orthodontic patients on the rise
In the last ten years there has been a dramatic increase in the number of adults getting orthodontic work
Until recently, braces where seen as a treatment that children and teenagers received. But a recent survey found that one in five orthodontic patients today are adults. The number of adult patients seeking orthodontic work has increased around 60% in the last ten years, and at Orthosmile Orthodontics in Brisbane 20% of our patients are adults.
The increased popularity of orthodontics with adults
There are two reasons orthodontics have been increasing popular with adults. The first is medical and the second is cosmetic.
1. Medical
Many adults who seek orthodontic treatment generally had braces as a child but didn’t wear their retainer long enough, or the way they were supposed to: and in some cases relapse has occurred.
2. Cosmetic
This is the biggest reason. Many adults working in jobs such as teaching, public relations and in the media often choose to get their teeth straightened. As one teacher said, he felt embarrassed to smile at his young students because his teeth were so bad. But being a teacher he didn’t want his students to see that he was getting orthodontic work done.
Answer? He got invisible lingual braces. These braces are placed behind the teeth on the tongue side so no one can see that you’re getting work done. Once his teeth were straightened (he also got them whitened) he felt happy and comfortable smiling to his class.
Other reasons for getting orthodontic treatment include the desire to better aligner teeth and to close space from missing teeth.
Straight teeth project good health and confidence
Straight teeth make your smile look healthier: and most patients who receive treatment feel much happier giving a big toothy-smile. Not only do straight teeth make your smile look healthier, but having straight teeth is actually better for your oral health. It makes brushing and flossing easier and it can help to improve your bite (occlusion).
With advances in orthodontics, treatments are less bulky, subtle and are stronger and more durable than they used to be. At Orthosmile Orthodontics we offer a range of orthodontic options to help straighten and improve your smile. Some of the orthodontic options we offer include:
- Metal braces
- Clear braces
- Clear aligners
- Invisalign
- Invisible lingual braces
Treatment may take longer
Childhood is the ideal time to get orthodontic work because the jaw is still developing. This can actually make treatment time faster because your jaw provides less resistance to the braces. When you’re an adult your jaw is denser and so treatment will take longer.
But wouldn’t you rather a year to a year and a half with orthodontic work if it meant straight teeth for the rest of your life?
If you are interested in straightening your smile, talk to the team at Orthosmile Orthodontics today. We have four conveniently located practices across Brisbane in Newmarket, Aspley, Bulimba and Chermside.
You’re never too old to get orthodontic work done and when you come in for a consultation one of our friendly staff will discuss what options are available. We can discuss what will best suit your oral health, your budget and your lifestyle.