Smiling is one of the greatest ways we express ourselves. So, if you’re unhappy with how your teeth look, you might find that it affects your self-esteem. Research has found that crooked or missing teeth can impact your oral health, too.
While braces have long been associated with teenagers, the good news is that anyone can benefit from teeth straightening treatment – and research shows that it’s becoming increasingly popular among adults. According to The British Orthodontic Society, over three-quarters (76%) of orthodontists have seen an increase in adult patients seeking teeth straightening treatment. Plus, with so many options available these days, you could have your dream smile sooner than you think.
Here, we explore why more people over 50 are turning to teeth straightening and consider some potential benefits of orthodontics.
What does teeth straightening involve?
Teeth straightening, also known as orthodontics, involves wearing devices to fix teeth-related issues such as crooked or crowded teeth, overbites, or gaps between teeth.
There are several types of braces, including fixed metal braces, removable aligners, and removable metal braces. Braces apply gentle pressure to teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. Following treatment, you’ll need to wear a retainer (full-time at first and then usually just at night) to keep your straight teeth in place.
Many people associate braces with teenagers, but they can be used at any age. If you had braces when you were younger but your teeth have shifted over time, it’s also possible to have treatment again.
Treatment length depends on several factors, including the type of braces you have and how extensive your needs are. Some treatments can take as little as four months, while more complex treatments can last between 18 and 24 months. It’s normal to experience some discomfort when braces are fitted and adjusted, but this should be temporary.
What types of braces are there?
There are a range of orthodontic treatments available, including fixed braces and clear aligners. The right one for you will depend on your clinical needs and personal preferences.
We’ll cover the different types of teeth straightening treatments below.
Clear, removable aligners
Clear aligners are made from thin, transparent plastic, which makes them virtually invisible. They look similar to retainers and mouth guards, and are moulded to the shape of your teeth for a precise, comfortable fit.
Clear aligners can correct various concerns, including gaps between teeth, minor crowding, and, in some cases, bite concerns such as overlapping teeth or overbite issues. The main draw of clear aligners is that they’re discreet and allow you to straighten your smile without others noticing. Many people find them to be more comfortable than traditional braces too. They’re also removable, meaning you don’t have to avoid foods that could damage your braces – and it’s easy to reach all areas of your teeth when brushing and flossing.
To be fully effective, clear aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day, which means you can remove them for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth. Your aligner will be changed every week or so as your teeth adapt and change.
Some people with clear aligners may also need temporary attachments added to their teeth, known as engagers. These tiny tooth-coloured bumps help to make sure aligners are creating pressure on the correct area of your tooth.
There are a range of clear aligners available, including the increasingly popular Invisalign system. Depending on your needs, Invisalign can offer results in as little as six months. The right option for you will depend on your clinical needs and your dentist or orthodontist’s recommendations.
Fixed braces
Fixed braces, also known as train track braces, are one of the best-known teeth straightening options.
Consisting of small brackets attached to each tooth and joined together by a wire, fixed braces apply gentle pressure, gradually moving your teeth into the desired position. Your dentist or orthodontist will check and adjust your braces every four to 10 weeks, and may tighten or change the wires to keep your teeth moving in the right direction.
In some cases, elastic bands or coil springs may also be used during treatment. Elastic bands can improve bite issues while coil string can help to close gaps or increase space between teeth. As well as traditional metal braces, there are other, more discreet, fixed brace options, including lingual braces, Damon braces, and ceramic braces.
Fixed braces can treat various issues and are often recommended for more complex cases, including extensive overcrowding, deep overbites, and abnormal tooth eruptions. They’re popular for their predictable results as they move teeth so precisely. And, unlike removable braces, treatment can’t be interrupted by taking them out for long periods.
Fixed braces are often used in NHS orthodontics but are also available privately.
Cosmetic teeth straightening
Cosmetic teeth straightening, also known as short-term orthodontics, focuses on straightening the six upper or lower teeth only.
Because cosmetic teeth straightening focuses on the front teeth, it’s only suitable for those looking for a quick cosmetic result – for example, issues such as minor crowding or misalignment. The time needed to straighten your teeth depends on how much movement is needed, but cosmetic teeth straightening can take as little as six months.
There are a range of cosmetic teeth straightening treatment options available, depending on your clinical needs and preferences. This includes clear, removable aligners and discreet fixed braces.
How much does teeth straightening cost?
Orthodontic treatment is available on the NHS for children under 18 if a dentist feels they need it. NHS orthodontic treatment isn’t usually available for adults, but is sometimes approved on a case-by-case basis if needed for health purposes. This means that most people will have to pay for teeth straightening treatments.
The cost of treatment varies depending on several factors, including the type of braces or aligners you have and the complexity of your needs. However, according to Total Orthodontics, pricing for adult fixed braces and adult Invisalign treatment begins at £3,849 and £2,700, respectively.
Head over to Total Orthodontics’ website to find out more about the cost of braces.
Why straighten your teeth later in life?
Braces work faster on children and teenagers whose jawbones are still developing. However, while it takes longer to straighten adult teeth because bones are more solid, our teeth continue to shift as we age, so there’s never an age when braces won’t work.
There are several benefits to having your teeth straightened over 50 and research shows that it’s becoming increasingly popular – with over three-quarters (76%) of orthodontists seeing an increase in adult patients seeking treatment.
Most adults who get braces do so for cosmetic reasons – and research has found that correcting crooked teeth can significantly improve people’s confidence and self-esteem. In this study, orthodontic treatment increased self-esteem and improved patients’ quality of life.
However, braces can be beneficial for oral health too. Firstly, straighter teeth are easier to clean and maintain with daily flossing and brushing. Clinical studies have found that crooked teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay because food and sugars can become more easily trapped. Tooth decay has been found to increase the risk of gum disease, and, if left untreated, negatively impact overall health.
In some cases, crooked teeth can also cause jaw pain or prevent people from closing their mouths fully. Plus, when accompanied by biting problems, this can also cause enamel to wear away. Straightening teeth can reduce the risk of them becoming flat, worn, or chipped, avoiding the need for other treatments, such as fillings or dental crowns.
As a result, this study found that 53% of people reported significant improvements in their oral health and quality of life after having orthodontic treatment.
If you’re considering orthodontics, you might like to hear first-hand the experiences from other patients. You can watch the video below to hear about Amy’s experience of having braces. Total Orthodontics also has a collection of before and after photos available on their website.
Final thoughts…
Braces are often associated with children and teenagers, but teeth straightening is available at any age and has become increasingly popular among adults in recent years. Having your dream smile doesn’t only boost confidence, but we know from research that it can improve oral health too. Plus, with various options available, treatment can be quick, easy, and discreet.
For further reading, you might be interested in our article: Fixed braces or clear aligners – which is best for me? Alternatively, head over to the oral health section of our website.
Have you got any experience of teeth straightening? Is it something you’re considering? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
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