Braces are not just for pre-teens any more. Adult braces are more popular than ever, with orthodontic visits for adults increasing annually. There are even some dental insurance companies that offer reduced fees for orthodontic visits, no matter what the age. Not only do braces straighten teeth, but they can also improve other issues, such as irregular bites.

Consultation
The orthodontist will take x-rays of the adult’s teeth from all angles. The orthodontist will create molds from the teeth as well. After a careful review of the adult’s teeth, the orthodontist will plot out a correction plan and discuss it with the patient. Important features of the correction plan include cost, duration and method.

Pre-Braces
Before the braces can be put on, the orthodontist may choose to perform a few procedures that will create an optimum environment for the braces to work. This may involve pulling a tooth, the placement of spacers between tightly fitting teeth and filling any cavities or other periodontal problems. Teeth are generally whitened and cleaned at this stage as well. In extreme cases of over- or underbite, jaw surgery is performed before braces go on.

Braces
Putting braces on the adult patient is similar to a pre-teen or teen patient. The orthodontist will put a substance on your teeth to bond with the cement of the braces. Brackets are mounted to the teeth, then wire is threaded through. Among the more popular braces on the market today is Invisalign, a type of clear, removable aligner that is molded perfectly to your teeth. However, only certain candidates qualify for Invisalign braces.

Every 4 to 6 weeks, the patient returns to the orthodontist to tighten the wires and make adjustments. As force is applied to the teeth, the bones and tissue break down and regenerate. The teeth are forced into a new position because of the braces. The orthodontist will make adjustments to the equipment until the teeth have matched the original plan.

Adult Braces Care
Adults must take care of their braces, and that includes brushing teeth after every meal. Even if it must be done in a public bathroom, it’s extremely important to brush so that food and other particles don’t get stuck in your braces and lead to tooth decay or bad breath. There is a list of foods that adult patients should not eat, including hard candy, nuts and gum. Softer foods are recommended, such as cheese, eggs, breads and ground beef.