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Teeth straightening is now a simple treatment for adults

While orthodontics used to be primarily for teenagers, patients of all ages are now getting ‘braces’ fitted to correct any misalignment of teeth

It is perfectly natural to have concerns about whether your teeth are as straight as they could be – and most of us probably do worry about this at some stage in our lives. In the past, adults used to think that there was nothing further to be done about the issue as braces were only for young people. People would assume that their age meant their teeth had ‘settled’ and getting braces would have no effect.

However, as the technology around orthodontics and braces has developed over the years, there has never been a better time to get your teeth straightened. Not only is it very effective regardless of your age, it is also painless, comfortable and very straightforward. There are also various different methods used which will depend on your age and the amount of work you need done.

Why braces?

There are three main reasons why you, as an adult, might want or need orthodontic treatment:

  • Function: Misaligned teeth affect your ‘bite’ and how you eat. Common issues include crowding, ‘deep bite’, protruding teeth and ‘crossbite’. Braces will correct these problems.
  • Health: Having straight teeth throughout your mouth is better for your overall gum and dental health. It makes cleaning – brushing, flossing, etc – easier and more effective.
  • Appearance: Many people opt to get braces for aesthetic reasons. If your teeth are crooked, they can affect how your smile looks. Indeed, many people don’t smile as much as they should if they are self-conscious about crooked teeth. Getting them straightened solves this and will give you a new self-confidence.

A visit to your dentist/orthodontist will help you to assess what treatment, if any, you would benefit from. Younger people who need braces generally get them fitted between the ages of eight and 14, while adults of all ages get theirs done.

Assessment

When your dentist refers you to a specialist orthodontist, they will examine your teeth and advise you on the best treatment for you. This will vary from patient to patient and will include a discussion on the most suitable braces.

How long does it take?

Orthodontic treatment in both children and adults usually lasts for between 12 and 24 months, though it is different for each patient. This depends on how much work you will need done. After treatment, your orthodontist may also advise you to use a retainer so your teeth stay in the position achieved.

How much does it cost?

Prices are different for each patient and will depend on your case and the type of braces you opt for. Your orthodontist will help you to choose the best option.

We use three different types of braces here in Dental Care Ireland:

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Clear aligners from Invisalign are made from plastic and are created just for your teeth. They are fixed to your teeth by your orthodontist and are practically invisible. They are one of the most popular options for this reason.

Ceramic braces

Clear – or ceramic – braces are another popular option as they are tooth-coloured and also barely noticeable.

Traditional metal braces

These remain the most popular option for children and adolescents as they provide the most effective and lasting solution to the problems misaligned teeth can create for young people. The brackets are ‘cemented’ to the teeth and a wire is used to ‘pressure’ the teeth into moving.

What do I have to do?

Your orthodontist will advise you on how best to care for your teeth while undergoing treatment as well as when your treatment is over. While wearing braces, it is important to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible through brushing and flossing, as well as watching what you eat and regularly visiting your dentist and/or hygienist.

Dental Care Ireland has full orthodontic services in the following practices:

You will also find them in our partner practice in Dublin 4 Northumberland Dental Care.

Find out more about Dental Care Ireland and the treatments on offer in our practices nationwide.

To find the Dental Care Ireland practice nearest you, check our list of locations here: https://www.dentalcareireland.ie/practices/

If you’re looking for braces in Dublin, we can help

Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing a reliable, community dental experience. If you need to get braces in Dublin, get in touch with us

 

Orthodontics (or braces) has become extremely popular all over Ireland. Up until recently, people assumed that braces could only really be worn by children, as their jaws and teeth were generally softer than those of adults, and therefore would be able to be “corrected” effectively. But now we have seen a huge upturn in the popularity of braces among older people as technology improves.

With that in mind, we are pleased to announce that all our Dublin practices – in Knocklyon, Swords, Ballsbridge and Cabinteely – have an orthodontist on hand to help if you are looking for specialised treatment.

There are different types of braces that you can get. These include Invisalign braces, which work to straighten teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners which are custom-made for the patient’s mouth; and ceramic braces which are clear and “tooth-coloured” so they blend in with your teeth to make them almost unnoticeable.

Of course, traditional metal braces are still an option, and are still used by children and adolescents. However, from an aesthetic point of view, these would not be as effective as Invisalign or ceramic braces.

Dr Lian O’Dwyer, orthodontist with Dental Care Ireland Knocklyon, says: “There are plenty of options if you’re looking to get braces in Dublin. The best age for orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. A specialist orthodontist will be able to advise you on the appropriate time to start any treatment. However, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy there is no age limit to treatment.”

It is important to remember that there is also a functional reason to get braces – it’s not just because they look good! For example, many patients may find that food is constantly getting stuck in between teeth that are damaged or mis-shapen. This tricky situation can itself lead to gum disease. With that in mind, it’s easy to understand the popularity of braces in Dublin and around the country.

Braces are safe, reliable and very effective. If you are interested in learning more, please contact our friendly team who can talk you through your options and what will work best for you after an initial consultation.

If you’re looking to book an appointment to get braces in Dublin, our practices around the city can offer you the help you need. Dental Care Ireland practices open late, on weekends and during lunchtime, so make sure you consult our opening hours