It’s never too late to improve your smile. While braces are often associated with tweens and teens, adults are increasingly seeking orthodontic treatment. In fact, about 1 in 5 orthodontic patients today is an adult. Many adults wonder if they are too old for braces at 35, 40, 50 or even 60. The answer is no – you’re never too old for a straighter, more attractive smile.
Orthodontists say there is no maximum age limit for braces. As long as you have most of your teeth, you can benefit from realignment. Advances in orthodontic technology and techniques also make treatment more effective and comfortable than ever. Clear ceramic braces and Invisalign aligners allow adults to straighten their teeth discreetly.
Why Adults Get Braces
Some of the top reasons adults seek orthodontic treatment include:
- They didn’t get braces as a child or teen.
- They have always been self-conscious about crooked or gapped teeth.
- Teeth have shifted over time.
- They want to improve dental health.
- Afraid of developing TMJ disorders.
- Want a more youthful smile.
- Recommended by their dentist.
Whatever the motivation, it’s important to have realistic expectations about what braces can achieve. While braces work at any age, the best and fastest results usually occur in growing children and teens. Adults may require longer treatment times. Bone growth is also limited, so there are restrictions in how much teeth can be moved. Discuss your goals and options during a consultation.
Benefits of Braces at 35
Here are some of the benefits of getting braces in your 30s:
Improved Oral Health
Crooked, crowded and gapped teeth are harder to properly clean. This allows more plaque and bacteria to build up, raising the risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease. Braces straighten teeth and correct bites, making them easier to brush and floss. Good oral hygiene is critical both during and after orthodontic treatment.
Easier Eating
Misaligned teeth may interfere with chewing and bite force. By repositioning teeth and jaws, braces can make eating more efficient and enjoyable. This also promotes proper nutrition.
Speech Improvements
Spaces between teeth and poor alignment can affect speech. Braces may help reduce lisping, mumbling or other speech problems.
TMJ Relief
Jaw pain, headaches and other TMJ disorders can occur when top and bottom teeth don’t fit together properly. Orthodontics helps align the bite to take pressure off the temporomandibular joints.
Confidence Boost
A beautiful smile helps make strong first impressions. Braces give adults a look they can be proud of. Feeling confident about their smile can also lead to improvements in personal and professional relationships.
Youthful Look
Aging leads to changes in facial structure, making wrinkles more noticeable. Minor tooth straightening and bite adjustment can provide a subtle lift, reducing signs of aging.
What Are the Steps for Getting Braces at 35?
Orthodontic Examination
The first step is a thorough exam to determine if braces are right for you. Digital scans and x-rays are taken of the teeth, jaws and bite. Your orthodontist will evaluate the health of your teeth and gums as well. Let them know your goals so they can advise you on what’s realistically achievable.
Treatment Plan
Once it’s determined you’re a good candidate, your orthodontist will outline the recommended treatment plan. This includes the expected duration, costs, risks and benefits. Advanced 3D imaging helps show potential outcomes. Discuss any concerns before deciding to proceed.
Records Appointment
At the records visit, additional photos, scans and measurements are taken. Molds of the teeth are made to create custom-fit appliances. Some offices allow patients to preview their smile with virtual braces via advanced software.
Braces Placement
Brackets and bands are precisely bonded to each tooth. The archwire is inserted and secured with elastic ties or metal ligatures. This begins gently moving the teeth and jaws. Your orthodontist will advise you on caring for new braces. Mild soreness is common the first week. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve discomfort.
Adjustments
You’ll return every 4-6 weeks for tightening the wires and repositioning the brackets to guide teeth into their ideal positions. Adjustment visits typically take 30-60 minutes. As treatment progresses, you’ll notice improvements in bite alignment and smile aesthetics.
Retention
After braces come off, retainers are required to hold teeth in their new positions. A removable retainer is worn full-time for the first 6 months, then nightly. A permanent bonded retainer behind the lower front teeth may also be recommended. Proper retainer wear prevents teeth from shifting back.
Types of Braces for Adults
Today’s braces are less obtrusive and more comfortable than traditional metal braces. Popular choices include:
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic brackets blend in more with natural tooth color for a discreet look. They function similarly to metal braces but aren’t quite as strong.
Lingual Braces
These “invisible” braces attach to the back of teeth instead of the front. Custom-fit to each tooth, lingual braces work well but tend to be expensive.
Clear Aligners
Brands like Invisalign use a series of clear plastic trays to gradually move teeth. Aligners offer an effective alternative to braces for adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Gold Braces
Gold brackets provide an alternative to traditional silver-colored braces. Gold isn’t as visible against tooth enamel.
How Much Do Braces Cost at 35?
According to the American Dental Association, the average cost of braces ranges from $3,000 – $7,000 for children and teens. Prices are typically higher for adults, averaging $5,000 – $8,000 or more. However, costs vary depending on the type of braces, needed corrections and treatment length.
Complex cases usually cost more. Lingual braces and clear aligners like Invisalign tend to be more expensive than traditional braces. Orthodontic insurance can offset some of the costs for adults. Payment plans are also commonly available. It’s a good idea to get estimates from 2-3 orthodontists before deciding on treatment.
How Long Until I See Results?
Most patients start to notice minor improvements in tooth alignment and bite within the first month or two. Fuller correction takes 12-24 months on average, but results vary based on the issues being treated. Your orthodontist will provide a timeline specific to your treatment plan.
Adults typically wear braces 1-3 years. Shorter treatment times are possible with mild cases or clear aligners. Consistent appliance wear, good oral hygiene and keeping regular adjustments is key for achieving the fastest results.
Can Braces Correct Jaw Problems?
Braces mainly correct crooked teeth and bites. In some cases, they may slightly impact jaw position. For more significant jaw misalignment, orthognathic surgery may be recommended in conjunction with braces.
During surgery, the upper, lower or both jaws are repositioned to improve function and facial proportions. It’s often needed when top and bottom teeth don’t meet properly due to under or overgrowth of the jaws. Braces are placed before and after surgery to complete the realignment process.
Do Braces Hurt More as an Adult?
Adults may experience more initial discomfort than teens getting braces. Teens have more bone growth and elasticity in their jaws. Moving mature adult teeth in tighter bone can cause more pressure and pain at first.
That said, today’s braces tend to be more comfortable than older appliances. Archwires made with superelastic materials like nickel titanium exert gentle, constant pressure on the teeth. Methods like coaxing teeth rather than forcing them allow for more physiological movement. Talk to your orthodontist about managing discomfort.
Risks of Braces at 35
While generally safe, braces do have some risks to consider:
– Tooth decay – Poor hygiene leads to more cavities with braces. Additional office visits for cleaning are key.
– Gum disease – Inflamed and irritated gums are possible if patients don’t remove plaque well before it hardens.
– Root resorption – In rare cases, tooth roots may shrink, indicated by loose teeth late in treatment. This is difficult to predict.
– Nerve damage – Numbness, pain or tingling of the lips or tongue may occur from extended pressure on surrounding nerves. Symptoms are usually temporary.
– Bone loss – Excessive orthodontic forces can cause loss of bone around tooth roots, increasing the chance of loosening or loss later. Proper force levels and good oral care reduces this risk.
– Relapse – Teeth gradually shift back after braces come off without wearing retainers. Lifelong retention is required to maintain improved alignment.
Discuss how to minimize risks before starting orthodontic treatment. Proper at-home care and following your orthodontist’s instructions can prevent most complications.
Am I Too Old for Braces at 35?
The short answer is no, you are not too old for braces in your 30s or even beyond. While treatment may take longer than in childhood, adults of any age can benefit from straighter teeth and an improved smile. Today’s modern materials make braces more effective and discreet than ever. If you’re ready to stop hiding your smile and want a confident, youthful look, consult an orthodontist about braces.
Conclusion
Although braces were once only associated with tweens and teens, they are now a popular option for adults wanting to improve their smiles. More than 1 in 5 orthodontic patients is now an adult. As long as you have most of your teeth, orthodontists say there is no maximum age to get braces. With realistic expectations, modern materials and good oral care, straightening your smile in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond is achievable. If you’re ready to stop hiding imperfect teeth, schedule a consultation and see if braces could help you gain the smile you’ve always wanted.