How Do Adult Braces Work?

Many adults have problems with their teeth because their parents could not afford braces, or else techniques to fix the problem did not exist when they were children. More and more adults are now opting for orthodontic treatment.

Function

• In adults, braces help correct crowded or crooked teeth, an overbite or under-bite, and jaw disorders. Crooked teeth are harder to clean and wear unevenly, so straightening can help to prevent gum disease and tooth loss.

Types

• Braces used to correct adult dental problems are the same as ones used for young people. Many adults, however, opt for porcelain front braces, rather than metal ones, since these are less noticeable. Alternatively, for minor spacing problems, adults can choose to wear aligners instead of a traditional brace.

Considerations

• Not all adult teeth are suitable for braces. Orthodontists will not normally agree to fit braces if teeth are in bad condition, or if the patient has poor dental hygiene. Adult jaws are set, so harder to stretch, which means that it might be necessary to remove teeth for spacing before fitting a brace. Adults also heal more slowly than young people so they usually have to wear the braces longer.