Although braces are the tried-and-true solution for straightening smiles, they are infamous for causing frustration and discomfort. Not only that, but the metal brackets and wires don’t do much to improve your appearance or boost your confidence.
If you’re seeking a more comfortable and discreet alternative, you might benefit from SureSmile clear aligners. However, many older adults worry that they’ve waited too long to try to reposition their grin and assume they’re no longer valid candidates for this service. But that’s not necessarily true! Read on to learn why you can still have hope regardless of your age!
How Does SureSmile Work?
Unlike traditional orthodontics, which utilize bulky metal brackets and wires attached to your teeth for the duration of your treatment, this alternative solution relies on a series of smooth, transparent plastic trays. They are customized to fit snugly over your arches to shift your teeth more gently, and they won’t cut the tender tissues inside your mouth like standard braces.
But you must wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent your teeth from returning to their starting places. Then, after about a week or two, you’ll be directed to switch to the next pair in your lineup to account for the ongoing movement of your smile.
What’s the Ideal Age for Orthodontics?
It’s common for patients to undergo orthodontic treatment in their adolescence, leading many older adults to assume they must have aged out of this option. But the reason so many people get these services during their teen years is that orthodontics tends to work faster and more comfortably while the jawbone is still developing. Once it fully matures, your teeth are more firmly rooted in the bone.
But that doesn’t mean they’re immovable. The pearly white mounds in your mouth are held in place by muscles, ligaments, and tissues with a natural capacity for movement at any stage of your life. That means you can still straighten your smile even as an adult, but it may take longer than it would have in your youth.
Am I Too Old for SureSmile?
If you’ve assumed you’re too old to successfully complete treatment with SureSmile clear aligners, think again! This popular solution can still be an effective way to straighten your teeth even later in life, and there are no age requirements, restrictions, or limitations on enhancing your grin. Plus, most dentists assess candidacy on a case-by-case basis, and your dental condition is typically more relevant to the decision.
If you are still unsure whether SureSmile is right for you, the best way to find out is by scheduling a consultation with your dentist!
About the Practice
At Sandy Lake Dental & Orthodontics, people of all ages benefit from a team of dental experts dedicated to helping them build beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. They take the time to get to know your individual needs and offer a comprehensive menu of services to meet them conveniently under one roof. Their caring approach combines with state-of-the-art technology to deliver beautiful, accurate results that are intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 393-7348.