If you think you’re too old for braces, think again. There is no such thing as being “too old” for braces. Braces are used to help improve your smile, no matter what your age may be. Starting from the moment you lose your last baby tooth and all of your adult teeth have grown in, you are eligible to receive the proper orthodontic care and may find that braces are the right fit for you. Here at Chapman Orthodontics in Marion County, IN, Dr. Peter Chapman will be able to look at the progress your teeth have made, and will determine the best orthodontic treatment for you.

Why do I need braces?

Braces are used to help restore the alignment of your teeth, fixing crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, and any incorrect jaw position or disorders of the jaw. We know that everyone’s teeth grow in different ways (shape, size, alignment, etc.). Dr. Peter Chapman says that patients with orthodontic problems at any age can benefit from orthodontic treatment.

How long will I need braces?

You can count on having your braces anywhere from 18-30 months, in order for your teeth and jaw to properly align. However, a Chapman Orthodontics associate says that in rare cases, some people may need to have their braces on longer in order to fix more extreme malocclusions. In the long run, all you need to worry about is having the straight teeth and smile you’ve been working so hard for.

How do I clean my braces?

Brushing: You should brush normally with your manual toothbrush twice a day.
Flossing: You should use regular dental floss to get through and clean between the teeth. Take extra care when working around the archwire so as to not cause any damage
Interproximal Brush: Using an interproximal brush, you will be able to clean between the archwire of your braces and your teeth all around. You want to use this every time you brush your teeth to get rid of any food substances stuck within your braces.

Will I look weird with braces?

Are you feeling anxious about wearing braces? Is the idea of others seeing you with braces making you nervous? Dr. Chapman says that he has seen plenty of adults who wear braces, and promises you that it looks completely normal. When you’re wearing braces, all you should think about is how amazing it will feel to have a new straight and healthy smile when they come off. All of your hard work toward keeping your braces nice and clean will pay off in the end, and will give you that bright healthy looking smile you’ve always wanted.

Don’t let the fear of your age or what others may think get in the way of fixing your teeth and bite. If for any reason, you feel that braces are not right for you, we here at Chapman Orthodontics in Marion County, IN offer other alternative treatment plans. Call us at (317) 484-6388, and we will set you up to see Dr. Peter Chapman for an appointment to discuss all treatment plan options that he feels are right for you.