Is it Too Late to Straighten My Teeth as an Adult?

We’re no strangers to adults who mourn not having gotten braces as children. Maybe their family couldn’t afford the treatment, or perhaps it was considered a cosmetic issue and, therefore, a non-necessity. However, many people still feel self-conscious when they look at their teeth and wish they could be straighter. 

Well, you’re in luck. You can still have your teeth straightened as an adult. And what’s more, there are additional options now — like Invisalign® — that might not have existed when you were a child. 

Downtown Dental Studio provides adult teeth straightening for almost every situation. Our providers — Fadi Beydoun, DMD, MS, Alexander Kimon, DMD, and Karina Zaygermakher, DMD — know the benefits of straight teeth are worth starting the process at any age.  

Why straighten your teeth as an adult 

You’re probably here because you are interested in straighter teeth. So, first, ask yourself why you want this procedure. Is it because you want to look how you’ve always wanted, or do you feel self-conscious about gaps or crooked teeth? For whatever reason, your happiness is a perfectly good reason to straighten your teeth as an adult. 

Next, studies have been conducted on how orthodontic treatment can affect self-esteem. How you see yourself also affects your mental health. This treatment can help you manage your self-image and see the smile you want when you look in the mirror. 

But getting your teeth straightened as an adult isn’t all about how it makes you look or feel. Malocclusion is harmful to your oral health. While children often get braces to prevent oral health issues in the future, it’s often not too late for our adult patients to do the same.  

Braces or aligners: which is better?

Every individual patient is different, so we work with you to help you determine the best way to straighten your teeth. Today, two options are available: traditional braces and nearly invisible aligners. The first might’ve been around when you were a kid, but the second might not have. 

Braces are still a great way to go if you’re looking for a traditional option! They don’t have to be removed, and most patients forget they’re wearing them after getting used to the new sensations. Braces are also usually the cheaper choice, and while most people can still see them, they aren’t as conspicuous as they were even a decade ago. 

On the other hand, Invisalign offers lots more freedom. Patients often enjoy how others hardly notice their aligners, and they love being able to take them out to eat. You will still need to clean your aligners and care for them considerably. But now that you’re an adult, you’ll likely be much more responsible and capable of the task!  

Adult teeth straightening may be for you 

We can’t tell you if this process is right for you, but it’s important to know that it’s never too late to start it. Your teeth and self-esteem could benefit wildly from the boost in wellness and confidence that this process will give you, and you can’t put a time limit on something like that. 

To discuss adult teeth straightening, which process may work for you, and whether or not your insurance will cover it, call us at 212-964-3337 or visit us online. We’ll happily make an appointment for you at our office in the Financial District. Looking forward to meeting you!