Orthodontic treatment isn't just for kids anymore, adults have been asking for years if they can wear braces too. Is adult orthodontic treatment possible?

Answer:

Yes, most adults can wear braces. It is important to keep in mind that your dentist will need to assess your current oral health to determine whether or not you are an ideal candidate for braces.

When you are ready to investigate orthodontic treatment further, you will first need to book an appointment with an orthodontist for a consultation, or speak to your general dentist to see if he is willing to treat you orthodontically. A consultation is a great opportunity ask questions about orthodontics and braces, voice any concerns or fears you may have about braces, and get a rough estimate of the cost associated with braces and orthodontic treatment.

During the consultation appointment, the dentist or orthodontist will give you a general assessment and a sense of whether or not wearing braces could be an option for you. If your dentist is confident that they can be, or he needs more information to determine your oral health, orthodontic records will be recommended as your next step.

If you decide to go ahead with the orthodontic records appointment, your dentist will be able to fully access your malocclusion by studying both the ceph and pan radiographs, photos and study models that were made from the dental impressions taken during the records appointment.

Your dentist will put together a treatment plan for you to consider that is based on his findings. There are some cases where there may be more than one option for you to consider. Some examples would be:

• Only treating the maxillary or mandibular teeth
• Using various appliances throughout your treatment
• Performing extractions, which might be necessary for your treatment to be successful

A final consultation will be scheduled between yourself and the dentist to solidify the treatment plan that you feel best suits your needs, and to discuss and select the type of orthodontic brackets you will be wearing. The final consultation appointment is also used to discuss the cost of your braces, make payment arrangements, and discuss dental insurance matters. A contract is generally signed to complete the administrative process. Once all is said and done, your first treatment appointment will be scheduled, and your orthodontic journey will begin.

Adult braces and orthodontic treatment is becoming a growing trend. Many adults feel that braces are only for children, and they will look out-of-place or foolish with braces on their teeth. Celebrities such as Gwen Stefani, Tom Cruise, Danny Glover, and Nicholas Cage, have publicly worn braces, proving that even the biggest names in Hollywood are willing to proudly show off their "tin grins."