Author: Laurel Casas Braces are something once thought of as a rite of passage for teens. But they are not for kids just anymore. The boom in cosmetic dentistry is prompting more adults to consider wearing braces to straighten their teeth. So if you think you’re too old for braces, think again. You can visit your cosmetic dentist the same time your children do!
No matter how popular, braces for adults are often more complicated and time-consuming than for teens, whose jaw bones are still growing and whose adult teeth have recently emerged. Adults tend to have other dental problems, such as gum disease, that may require treatment before braces can be attached; plaque build-up and gum disease may be exacerbated by some forms of orthodontics.
There are fixed braces that generally require 9 to 30 months to work, no matter what your age. After the braces are removed, both adults and young people will have to wear a retainer—a removable appliance that keeps teeth from shifting into their previous positions—for about six months, every day, and then only at night for several years. Adults may have to use a retainer for a longer period of time than younger people.
While the stigma of wearing braces as an adult has all but disappeared, most people prefer not to show a mouth full of metal when they smile. Fortunately, cosmetic options such as ceramic or "tooth-colored" braces; lingual braces that fit behind the teeth; and "clear," removable "braces" are available. No matter what you and your cosmetic dentist decide on, fixed braces generally have to be adjusted every five to eight weeks, depending on the stage of treatment.
The most widely available types of braces are metal or "traditional" braces. They are the least expensive type of braces and are widely available. One benefit is that they are strong and rarely break, which means fewer time-consuming visits to the doctor. Staining is not a problem. "Speed" braces, which involve a special type of bracket that locks onto the wire, are up to 40% faster and are more hygienic than regular versions since elastic bands normally used to attach the wire to the tooth bracket are eliminated.
About the Author:Laurel Casas is an accomplished Public Relations agent who in the past 9 years has covered a variety of fields in government, non-profits and specialty marketing. She is respected and recognized among her peers as an authority in news and relevant corporate announcements. Her portfolio of clients includes large corporations such as Manitex International, as well as boutique cosmetic dentist clinics such as AustinSmiles.com . Laurel is currently consulting with Fahrenheit Marketing, LLC of Austin, TX as a brand building Public Relations person.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/cosmetic-dentistry-adults-can-wear-braces-too-1187070.html