Braces Manassas: Can Adults Wear Braces?

Braces Manassas

Braces Manassas | There are many things to consider when contemplating adult braces. Having your teeth straightened can have a significant positive impact in your life. But there are also considerations like money, time and comfort. For one million adults each year, the decision is made in the affirmative.

When it comes to braces Manassas residents need the best information available to guide their decision.

When should an adult consider braces?

Braces are not only for adults who never wore them as adolescents. For example, an adult may find that earlier dental work was not permanent, and now they must wear braces again. Such a person may have not faithfully worn a retainer, or it may have naturally happened over the years. Others find that their wisdom teeth arrived later in life. Or they may have had a tooth extracted that caused their teeth to shift. There are no age restrictions on braces. Some dentists have actually placed braces on patients as old as 80 years old.

Braces Manassas | Woman with braces smiling.

Wearing braces is a bit different for adults. Because their teeth are fully grown, they may be required to wear braces longer than adolescents. This additional time can range anywhere from 18 months to three years. Wearing a permanent retainer may also be necessary to keep teeth from moving again.

What types of braces are available for adults?

The most popular types of braces for adults include:

  • Traditional braces
  • Ceramic braces
  • Lingual braces
  • Clear aligners

Traditional Braces

Conventional metal braces are an effective and affordable way to straighten an adults teeth. Metal braces are able to correct mild to severe teeth crowding, spaced teeth, common bite issues, and more.

Brackets for today’s metal braces can be gold or silver, and utilize tiny rubber bands around them. Modern metal braces are strong, durable, and able to withstand most forces.

Ceramic Braces

Sometimes known as “clear braces,” these have the same functionality as traditional metal braces. They are also the same shape and size as traditional braces. One difference is that ceramic braces employ tooth-colored brackets, not metal ones. Each bracket has an o-shaped rubber band around it. The bands can be white or translucent. This lets them appear more similar to the color of your surrounding teeth.

Although clear braces are still somewhat visible, many adults have a preference for them over traditional braces due to their superior aesthetics.

Lingual Braces 

Lingual braces are simply metal braces that are affixed to the back part of the teeth, making them less visible. One drawback is that they can also be more uncomfortable because they are near the tongue.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a relatively recent innovation in orthodontics. The most widely known brand is Invisalign. It provides a nearly invisible and completely removable teeth straightening treatment option that is appealing to both teens and adults alike.

Your Consultation

If you are interested in braces Manassas residents are encouraged to contact the office of their local orthodontist or dentist to schedule a consultation and learn if they would make an appropriate candidate for this type of treatment.