As a teenager, you wore braces to address your crooked, misaligned teeth. Now that years or even decades have passed, you may notice that your teeth have shifted over time, leaving you with a less-than-perfect smile. What should you do? Can you wear braces twice? The only way to find out is to keep reading to discover what is possible when your teeth need orthodontic treatment again.
What Makes a Second Round of Braces Necessary?
A few reasons explain why you might need braces again, even if you wore them as a child or teenager. These include:
- Your teeth are shifting over time because of your age
- You didn’t wear your retainer properly the first time, and your teeth have shifted as a result
- Your wisdom teeth erupted and forced your teeth out of alignment
- You continue to practice bad habits (i.e., biting fingernails, eating ice, grinding teeth, etc.) that cause problems with your bite alignment
Is Orthodontic Treatment Possible a Second Time?
Yes, you can wear braces later in life, even if you previously wore them at a younger age. The type of orthodontic treatment you receive may differ depending on your preferences, budget, and case, but there is technically no age cap for this type of care.
Many patients prefer a less bulky and unsightly solution – one that doesn’t consist of shiny metal brackets and wires – but not all individuals are suitable for clear aligners. A thorough evaluation of your smile will determine which solution will be best for your smile needs.
What Makes a Second Round Worth It?
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth pursuing orthodontics a second time, you’ll discover there are many great benefits, such as:
- You are likely to have a bigger budget, so you can choose the type of treatment you prefer
- You are more mature and will be likely to follow the instructions required for successful results
- You are likely to take better care of your natural teeth and gums, making sure they remain healthy and cavity- and disease-free
- You understand the necessity of good oral health and how it connects with the overall body
Don’t let your age or stage of life keep you from seeking orthodontic treatment. Even if you previously wore braces in your earlier years, trust that a suitable solution will be available for you if you need this type of care years or decades down the road.
About the Practice
Treehouse Orthodontics consists of four talented orthodontists who see patients of all ages. Our team recognizes the changes that can indicate it’s time for another round of braces. With different options to choose from, we explain each type of treatment thoroughly so that you know what to expect when preparing to re-enter the process. Give your smile a second chance by calling to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists. You can visit our website or speak to a member of our team when inquiring about an available time slot.