Are you an adult looking to benefit from orthodontic treatment? You might feel like braces and aligners are only for teens. Yet more adults are choosing orthodontic treatment from Dr. Straffon than ever before. At 303 Smiles in Greenwood Village, you can access care that gives you a healthier and more confident look—no matter your age.
Ageless Smiles
When you think about braces, you probably picture a grinning teenager with colorful rubber bands. But orthodontic care isn’t only for kids, you know. Your teeth can shift at any time in your life. Over the years, they might drift, crowd, or even overlap. You may also find that a once-straight bite changes as you get older. If that happens, you might struggle with day-to-day tasks like chewing or cleaning your teeth.
Kids often have braces while they’re still growing. Think of that as an early opportunity to help shape their dental development. But as an adult, you have plenty of benefits, too. You get to call the shots. You’re motivated and ready to stick to the plan. You also understand why small daily habits make a big difference.
Common Reasons You May Consider Orthodontic Care
You may want to see Dr. Straffon or our 303 Smiles team for many reasons. Sometimes, you’re concerned about how your smile looks. Other times, it’s about your health.
Here are a few things we see in Greenwood Village adults:
- Crowded or Overlapped Teeth: Teeth that sit too close can trap plaque and food particles. They can be harder to brush and floss.
- Gaps or Spacing: Large spaces between your teeth can cause issues with how your bite fits together. It can also make some people feel self-conscious.
- Overbite or Underbite: When your top or bottom teeth stick out, it can affect your chewing and might lead to issues with your jaws.
- Shifting Over Time: Teeth can move as you age, even if they were once straight.
Adults often put off orthodontic treatment because they think it’s too late. But you might find that the payoff is worth it. A straighter, brighter smile can help boost your self-esteem. It’ll also help you avoid bigger dental concerns down the road.
Braces vs. Aligners: You Have Options
You don’t have to settle for metal braces any longer—though those are still popular (and they work really well). Many adults choose clear aligners because they don’t draw much attention. You can remove them to eat, brush, or floss. Clear aligners can work for many situations, including mild to moderate crowding or spacing.
Your adult orthodontic options at 303 Smiles include:
- Metal Braces: The classic choice, known for strength and reliability.
- Clear Braces: Brackets that blend with the color of your teeth.
- Damon Braces: Self-litigating for maximum comfort.
- Pitts21 Braces: 3X more accurate than competitors.
- Invisalign: Removable trays you can take out when you need to.
Fitting Treatment into a Busy Schedule
You might worry about juggling family, work, and social life while in braces or aligners. Modern orthodontics from Dr. Straffon helps you spend less time in the office and more time in your life. You don’t need to be rushing to a follow-up every five minutes.
If you need braces, you’ll visit us every few weeks to tighten wires or adjust bands. That might sound like a lot, but most adult patients find these visits fast and easy. Our 303 Smiles clinic offers flexible scheduling, so we’re open early in the morning and later in the afternoon. Ask about our specific hours at your next appointment.
How Long Will It Take?
Many adults finish treatment with Dr. Straffon in 12 to 24 months. Of course, the timeline can vary. If your teeth need more adjustment, you might wear braces longer. Treatment with clear aligners might wrap up sooner if your case is less intensive.
You might also need a retainer when you finish braces or aligners. Retainers are small devices you wear to help keep your teeth in line. Many people use a retainer only at night once their braces or aligners come off. Over time, you might wear it less often, but it’s often wise to use it as part of your routine.
The Health Perks of Adult Orthodontics
A straight smile looks good, but it can also help your overall oral health. Crowded or crooked teeth can lead to plaque buildup in those hard-to-reach spots. This buildup can put you at higher risk for cavities or gum problems. You can brush and floss better when your teeth are lined up properly.
A stronger bite can also help with chewing. If your bite is off-center, you might strain your jaws when you eat. You could have chips or wear on your teeth from uneven pressure. Small changes help you avoid bigger problems later, like tooth fractures or gum recession.
What About Pain?
It’s common to worry about pain. Braces or aligners can cause your teeth to feel sore when you first start or after an adjustment. Luckily, most folks say it’s short-lived. Over-the-counter pain relievers often help ease the ache if needed. Saltwater rinses can soothe tender spots, too. After a few days, most people adjust and feel fine.
Are You Self-Conscious About Braces?
Many adults worry about how braces might affect their appearance. Clear aligners are a popular choice because they are barely noticeable. Clear braces can also blend with your teeth. These are worth exploring if you have a job or social life that makes you want a lower-profile look.
Some adults aren’t bothered by braces at all. They wear them with pride. If that’s you, more that’s to you! The key is finding what fits your personal style, comfort level, and budget.
Caring for Your Teeth During Treatment
You’ll want to start brushing and flossing once you have braces or aligners. Plaque can build up fast, especially around brackets. With aligners, you take them out to brush, so it’s a bit easier. But remember to keep your aligners clean, too!
Here are a few tips to keep your mouth clean:
- Brush After Every Meal: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and pay attention to all sides of your teeth.
- Floss Daily: If you have braces, use threaders or a water flosser to reach between your teeth.
- Use Mouthwash: A fluoride rinse can be a solid addition to brushing and flossing.
- Watch What You Eat: Sticky or crunchy foods can break braces or damage wires.
If you wear aligners, rinse them before putting them back in. This helps you avoid trapping food bits against your teeth. Consistent hygiene is the best way to stay on track and reduce the chance of any problems.
Treatment for Adults in Greenwood Village
Dr. Straffon has the treatment that adults in Greenwood Village are looking for! Go here to schedule your free consultation with 303 Smiles.