Crooked teeth, gaps between teeth or a bite that does not close well: many adults live with these for years. Orthodontics is not only for teenagers. With modern options such as clear aligners, you can still work on a more attractive and better functioning bite later in life.
Does it make sense to get braces as an adult?
In principle, teeth can be moved at any age, as long as the gums and the bone around the teeth are healthy. People choose braces for different reasons: the appearance of their teeth, teeth that are hard to keep clean, or a bite that feels uncomfortable. A proper dental examination is always the starting point. Your dentist or orthodontist then assesses whether treatment is sensible and feasible and which approach suits you.
How do clear aligners work?
Aligners are transparent, custom-made plastic trays that fit over your teeth. Each set of trays moves the teeth a small step. After roughly one to two weeks you switch to the next set, which has a slightly different shape, so that the teeth move step by step towards the planned position. A scan of your teeth is used beforehand to create a treatment plan, so you get an impression of the planned end result. Sometimes small tooth-coloured attachments are placed on the teeth to help the trays grip.
- Nearly invisible while wearing them
- Removable for eating and brushing
- No metal wires or brackets that can irritate
- Requires discipline: the trays must be in almost all day, usually 20 to 22 hours
Aligners or fixed braces: which suits you?
Both methods can give good results, but not every situation is suitable for aligners. Complex bite problems or complicated tooth movements are sometimes better treated with fixed braces. Fixed braces are bonded to the teeth and cannot be removed, so you depend less on your own discipline. Aligners offer more comfort and easier cleaning. Your practitioner can discuss the advantages and disadvantages for your situation.
How long does treatment take?
Duration differs from person to person and depends on the starting situation, the chosen method and how carefully the treatment is followed. For minor corrections, aligner treatment may take a few months; for more complex cases it often takes a year or longer. After the examination your practitioner will give you a personal estimate. Check-up visits along the way are needed to monitor progress.
- 01
Intake and examination Start
Your wishes, teeth and gums are assessed, possibly with photos, scans or X-rays.
- 02
Treatment plan Plan
You receive an explanation of the options, the expected duration and what is expected of you.
- 03
Wearing and monitoring Treatment
You wear the aligners according to schedule and visit regularly so progress can be checked.
- 04
Retention phase Retainer
Afterwards you receive a retainer to keep the result in place.
Why is a retainer so important?
After treatment, teeth tend to slowly move back towards their old position. A retainer keeps the teeth where they are now. This can be a thin wire bonded behind the teeth, or a removable plastic retainer that you wear mainly at night. Your practitioner decides how long and how often you need to wear it. Often the advice is to do so for a long time, sometimes permanently.
Practical tip: brush your teeth and the aligners after every meal, and only drink water with the trays in. This prevents food and acids from being trapped under the trays.
When is it wise to visit the dentist?
Are you considering braces or aligners? Start by booking a check-up. It is wise to have cavities or gum problems treated beforehand, because teeth with inflammation or an active cavity cannot be moved properly. During treatment you can also get in touch if a tray no longer fits, a wire comes loose or you have persistent pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
IMPORTANT NOTE
This content is for informational purposes only; it does not substitute personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your personalized treatment plan will be determined after a clinical examination by Mondzorg HS dentists.