You might assume that orthodontic treatments are for children and adolescents, but braces for adults are highly beneficial. At Bayou Braces & Dentistry, we offer excellent orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages throughout Abbeville, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, New Iberia, and New Orleans, LA.

We provide our patients with unmatched orthodontic and dental care in a comfortable, laid-back environment at our orthodontic practice. Our mission is to transform smiles throughout Louisiana and improve oral health.

Are Braces an Option for Me?

It doesn’t matter how old you are when getting braces and other orthodontic treatments. Children, teens, and adults can benefit from wearing braces because orthodontic issues can develop at any age.

Though children and adolescents adjust to orthodontic treatments more quickly than adult patients, that does not mean you are too old for braces. Teeth continue to shift over time, so some people may determine they need braces later in life to achieve straight teeth and an improved smile.

Adult braces can also treat other issues, including chronic jaw pain, bone erosion, and TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder). Even if you are satisfied with your smile but are experiencing tooth misalignment, you could develop gum disease due to bacteria having more places to hide in your gumline. However, braces for adults can make your teeth straight, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.

Why You May Need Orthodontic Treatment as an Adult

If your orthodontist determines you are a candidate for adult braces after a thorough orthodontic examination, it could be for several reasons. Many people seek orthodontic treatments to enhance their smiles and appearance by getting straighter teeth. However, braces may also address chewing difficulties, protruding or recessed jaws, underbites, overbites, and tooth misalignment.

You might also need braces if you have too much space between teeth. Overcrowded teeth are another fixable issue using braces. These problems may seem minor if you’ve had them for years, but they can affect your overall health and well-being. For instance, misaligned teeth can lead to difficulty chewing.

Rest assured that the skilled professionals at Bayou Braces & Dentistry will ensure that you receive the most suitable orthodontic care for your specific orthodontic or jawbone issues.

Benefits of Getting Braces for Adults

A noticeable advantage of getting adult braces is an enhanced smile. The adjustments in your teeth and jaw position can improve your physical appearance, which can boost your confidence and self-esteem, regardless of your age.

Braces for adults will also improve your overall oral health. Oral health can affect various issues, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Our experienced orthodontists thoroughly assess and treat every patient to ensure that their orthodontic treatments improve their quality and help prevent additional health issues from developing.

Treatment Options

As an adult, you have different options when it comes to braces, allowing you to choose the plan that best suits you. Our team will happily review your options while planning your orthodontic treatment, which may include one of the following:

  • Metal Braces: You’re likely thinking of the metal variety when you think of traditional braces. They include small elastic bands, metal brackets, and metal archwires on the front of your teeth.
  • Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces work in the same way as metal braces, but they are made from tooth-colored ceramic brackets, rather than metal. The ceramic material gives this type of braces a more natural, discreet look.
  • Gold Braces: As flashy as these may sound, gold braces are just as effective as their traditional counterpart. Ask us about this type during your free consultation.

What Is the Difference in Braces for Adults Compared to Kids?

Braces for adults and braces for kids are relatively the same orthodontic appliances. The primary difference between younger and older patients is growth.

Children’s jaws and teeth are still developing, making them more receptive to orthodontic treatments. This typically allows children to experience more noticeable results in a shorter time frame. Teens have most, if not all, of their permanent teeth, but their jaws are still easy to manipulate.

However, by the time you reach adulthood, your face and mouth structure have become more developed. While your orthodontist can undoubtedly address many orthodontic issues in adults using braces, it may take a bit longer to achieve the desired effect. When you receive braces for adults from Bayou Braces & Dentistry, our team will provide further details about your treatment’s projected timeline.