Introduction 

Adult orthodontic treatment aims to address various issues related to dental alignment, including straightening crooked, protruding, or crowded teeth, correcting the bite and closing gaps between teeth. Recently, there has been a notable increase in adults seeking orthodontic interventions. For instance, a survey conducted by the British Orthodontic Society revealed that more than three-quarters of orthodontists have observed an increase in adult patients seeking such treatments.¹ 

Adults typically must pay for their orthodontic treatment; however, some may be able to get it funded, which is considered on a case-by-case basis.² Consequently, individuals often turn to private treatment, which can be costly, typically ranging from £2000 onwards. Therefore, when considering treatment, you should fully understand the different types of orthodontic treatment available, the advantages, and disadvantages and what to expect.

Being well-informed about the potential types of orthodontic treatments will help you to make informed decisions regarding your desire to undergo adult orthodontic treatment. 

Types of Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

Traditional Metal Braces 

Traditional metal braces, commonly referred to as ‘train tracks’, are composed of metal brackets which are fixed onto the teeth and connected by a wire. Throughout your treatment, this wire is periodically adjusted by the orthodontist, usually every four to ten weeks, to gradually guide the teeth into their desired alignment.  

This is a versatile type of braces that is suitable form most orthodontic cases, especially those requiring significant teeth movement, such as severe overcrowding. Their effectiveness in addressing complex dental issues is often superior to other options such as clear removable aligners.  

One drawback to traditional metal braces is their fixed- they cannot be removed throughout the treatment process, unlike other options, such as clear aligners. Despite this drawback, advancements in orthodontic technology have rendered metal braces more aesthetically pleasing. Today, patients can choose from a variety of brackets and elastic colours, allowing for personalisation and improved aesthetics.   

Another advantage of metal braces is their continuous application to the teeth, ensuring that the teeth continue to move without you having to make any conscious effort. However, during your treatment, you may have to wear additional elastics to modify the bite. You must comply with wearing these elastics if instructed to do so by your orthodontist to achieve optimal results in the expected time frame.  

Additionally, traditional metal braces are typically the most cost-effective treatment, making them a practical choice for individuals seeking reliable orthodontic treatment. 

In summary, traditional metal braces are a popular choice for orthodontic treatment due to their versatility, effectiveness in addressing more complex dental issues and their relative affordability. Despite them being fixed, advancements in aesthetics and design continue to make them an appealing option for adults seeking orthodontic treatment.  

Ceramic Braces 

Ceramic braces work in the same way as metal fixed braces and can be either clear or tooth coloured, which makes them very discreet. They are a more expensive option than metal fixed braces.

A downside of ceramic braces is that there is an increased risk of staining when consuming things such as curry, coffee, and tea. Furthermore, they are not as strong as metal fixed braces, which can lead to them becoming damaged or treatment taking longer than it would have. 

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are made up of the same components as metal fixed braces; however, they are attached to the back of the teeth. This makes them nearly invisible from the front. This feature makes lingual braces an attractive option for many adults who want orthodontic treatment without the visibility of conventional braces.  

While lingual braces offer discreet treatment, they may not be suitable for everyone. For example, individuals with a deep overbite, for instance, may face a higher risk of brackets breaking off due to the positioning of the braces. Your orthodontist will assess your suitability for lingual braces and discuss alternative options if necessary. 

It is important to note that lingual braces require additional training to be able to fit; therefore, not all orthodontic centres offer this type of brace, and they typically come with a higher price tag.

A potential drawback of lingual braces is that they have been known to impact speech, causing a lisp. This tends to go away after a while, but can be challenging for some patients and should be considered before committing to this type of orthodontic treatment. 

Clear Aligners 

Clear aligners serve as an alternative to fixed braces. They involve a series of aligners which straighten your teeth over time. Approximately every two weeks, you swap out the trays for the next tray in the series. 

They can be used to fix problems such as spacing issues, crowding and bite issues. Your orthodontist will tell you if you are eligible for clear aligners; they may not be suitable for more complex orthodontic cases. 

They are removable, which may appeal to adults looking to avoid the look of fixed braces, but for best results should be worn for at least 22 hours per day, ideally only being removed for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. This can make clear aligners a less attractive option as it requires more thought than fixed metal braces. 

Adult Orthodontic Treatment: What to Expect 

Information about orthodontic practices near you can be found online. To ensure you make the right choice, consider the following: 

• Make sure the practice employs people fully qualified in orthodontic treatment 
• Understand the potential cost of treatment 
• Acquire a basic understanding of different treatment options 

Most practices will offer an initial assessment without you having to commit to treatment. During this initial assessment, expect X-rays and mounds to be taken, along with anything extra your practice does. Your orthodontist will then discuss eligible treatment options and their implications with you. 

If you then choose to commit to orthodontic treatment and decide what kind you want to have, your treatment can then commence. Regular visits to your orthodontist are essential for monitoring tooth health. Remember to continue attending your regular dentist appointments, as orthodontic practices do not generally assess general tooth hygiene and care.  

Post-treatment care and maintenance 

After your orthodontic treatment has finished, you will be fitted with a retainer. This can either be removable or fixed behind the teeth, but must be worn as per the instructions of your orthodontist. If you do not comply with this, you risk your teeth moving out of line again. 

Attending any follow-up appointments is crucial to monitor the stability of your newly aligned teeth. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene practices is essential for the longevity of your smile.

Benefits of Adult Orthodontic Treatment 

Orthodontic treatment can have many benefits and can be a worthwhile investment for many adults, for their mental and physical health. 

One benefit is improved self-confidence. A survey of over 2000 people over the age of 18 aimed to analyse how straight teeth affected their lives. In this survey, it was found that 92% of respondents reported they were more confident after having straightened their teeth.³ If you feel that feeling self-conscious about your teeth holds you back in life, then adult orthodontic treatment can help with this. 

Furthermore, adult orthodontic treatment can help correct bite problems and alignment issues. Bite problems can lead to tooth erosion, and alignment issues can lead to difficulty in keeping the teeth in good health. For example, in cases of excessive crowding, there is an increased risk of gum disease and the need for fillings, due to difficulty in brushing the whole tooth. By addressing these issues, adult orthodontic treatment not only enhances aesthetics but also mitigates potential dental complications in the future.  

Challenges and Considerations 

There are some challenges and considerations to make when deciding if adult orthodontic treatment is for you. 

Firstly, adult orthodontic treatment is a large investment. It is important to weigh up whether you are prepared to fully commit to your treatment and your post-treatment care to make the most out of your treatment. 

Furthermore, although this is different for everyone, orthodontic treatment usually comes with some degree of discomfort. It is also not a quick process, and it is important to consider that you are prepared to deal with adult braces for the duration of your treatment. 

Finally, due to the addition of the brackets and wires, it is more difficult to clean between the teeth and ensure that you brush effectively. This will take extra time and is an important step to maintain good oral hygiene for the duration of your treatment. 

Choosing the Right Orthodontic Provider 

When choosing the right orthodontic provider, it is important to make a good decision and attend a good, reputable practice. Assessing practice reviews and patient testimonials can offer insight into the quality of care people have experienced at the practice.  

It is important to know that all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists.⁴ Orthodontists undergo additional specialised training to understand, diagnose and treat irregularities of the teeth and jaw. Enquiring with your practice about the qualifications of the practitioners can give you confidence in their experience and training. 

You may see there is an option to get braces online, which might seem more cost-effective and convenient; however, it is important to note the potential risks involved. Remote orthodontic treatment lacks the necessary in-person checks, posing severe threats to oral health.⁵ When undergoing orthodontic treatment, it is very important that your teeth and gums are regularly checked by your orthodontist and dentist to ensure your teeth remain in good health. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, there are many options available to you in terms of orthodontic treatment. Familiarising yourself with the different treatments and their mechanisms enables you to select the most suitable one for you. Your orthodontist plays a pivotal role in guiding this decision, providing insight into available options and their respective outcomes.  

Summary 

There are many options for adult orthodontic treatments available. The treatment you choose will be guided by your orthodontist’s recommendation and personal preference; there is no right or wrong option. 

During treatment, you should make sure to comply with any instructions given by your orthodontist to ensure that your treatment moves as quickly as possible. For whatever orthodontic treatment you choose to have, ensure that you fully understand what will happen before you undergo it and that the practice you attend is reputable. 

If you know what to expect and have all the information needed to make an informed decision, this will ensure that you get the best out of your adult orthodontic treatment.