5 Myths About Getting Braces as an Adult

Braces? But you’re not a kid anymore. There’s no way you need braces this late in life, right? You may actually be wrong. Of the 4 million folks who wear braces in the United States, roughly a quarter of them are adults.

If that surprises you, we get it. We also understand if it raises a few questions about how braces work for adults. Here, our team at Rifkin Dental unpacks a few of the most common misconceptions about adult braces.

Myth #1: You’re going to be in a lot of pain

One of the most common (and valid) concerns surrounding braces has to do with discomfort. For many, braces conjure up horror stories of rogue wires scraping against tender gums. While that may have been the reality for braces-wearers in the past, advancements in orthodontic technology have made braces more comfortable than ever. 

If the brackets and wires do happen to irritate your gums, you can get quick relief with a bit of orthodontic wax, a saltwater rinse, and a warm compress. 

Myth #2: You’re too old for braces

Contrary to popular belief, braces aren’t just for kids. The process for adult braces is the same whether you’re 17 or 70. Many adults have the same bite, spacing, and jaw positioning problems as their younger counterparts, and braces are just as effective in addressing those issues. 

Myth #3: Adult braces are too expensive

The price of your braces never hinges on your birthdate. What you pay for your braces depends solely on the length of your treatment and other specifics about your needs. Talk to us about the possibility of insurance covering some of the cost and our payment plans.

Myth #4: Braces take longer for adults

Some believe that younger, developing teeth are more likely to be persuaded by the force of braces, and older, more mature teeth will resist treatment and take longer to shift. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Adult teeth respond just as well to orthodontic treatment as adolescent teeth. 

On average, braces take anywhere from six months to two years. The only reason you may require a longer treatment plan is if the severity of your oral health problems calls for it. 

Myth #5: Your smile will look worse before it looks better

Second perhaps only to pain, the aesthetic impact of braces is a top concern for many of our patients (regardless of age). We’re happy to report that braces have come a long way, and there are now many options for fixing your teeth without hampering your appearance. 

Clear braces, for example, use clear brackets that are nearly invisible. If your orthodontic needs are minor, we may even recommend Invisalign® aligners, which offer an even more discreet way of addressing your smile problems. 

If you’d still like more information about what adult life looks like with braces, don’t hesitate to request an appointment by calling our friendly staff at either our Carmel or Yorktown Heights, New York, offices.