While teeth straightening treatments are mostly associated with older children and teenagers, the number of adults choosing orthodontics is fast on the rise. Despite the huge numbers of adults now deciding to straighten their teeth, there are still a lot of people who are unsure about adult braces for the fear of wearing a bulky fixed brace that draws attention to their teeth during treatment. Braces technology, however, is constantly evolving and this is good news for those seeking straighter teeth. 

Orthodontics has come a long way since the bulky, ‘train track’ metal braces that a lot of adults remember from their childhood. There are many benefits to seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, from realigning your teeth and helping increase your self-esteem, to helping get rid of jaw pain, removing unnecessary wear on the teeth, and fixing bite issues. 

The most important thing you need to know as an adult considering braces, is that you have options. There are a number of different types of braces available, depending on the alignment of your teeth, the results you hope to achieve, and how you would like your teeth to look during treatment. 

Teeth straightening treatments for adults 

With modern orthodontics, including digital scanning, orthodontists can provide a clearer idea of the finished results you can achieve and how long you can expect treatment to take. Some of the most popular adult braces include: 

Metal braces 

Modern metal braces are now more aesthetically pleasing and more comfortable in the mouth than they were in the past. Whilst metal braces are still fixed to the teeth, the brackets are smaller with a lower profile, to help prevent rubbing. The smaller size brackets also mean that braces are much less visible than in the past, so adults can feel better about their appearance whilst undergoing teeth straightening. 

Fixed metal braces are highly effective in correcting a wide range of tooth alignment and bite problems. Using lower force on the teeth than in the past, modern braces mean less discomfort, and often faster treatment times. 

Invisalign clear aligners 

Invisalign is one of the most popular adult orthodontic treatments as the aligners are clear and removable. Made from wafer thin, medical grade plastic, Invisalign fits comfortably over your teeth. Every few weeks, aligners are replaced with a new set to gradually move your teeth into their intended position.  

Used to correct a few different bite and alignment issues, Invisalign makes life much easier during meal times and whilst carrying out daily oral hygiene practices. As they can be removed, there is no limit to the foods you can eat, and when cleaning your teeth, there are no brackets or wires to navigate around with your toothbrush. 

If you are worried about the way you will look when wearing braces, Invisalign is practically undetectable and allows you to carry on with all work and social activities as normal, without anyone identifying that you are having teeth straightening treatment. 

Radiance Plus braces 

Modern orthodontics allow for the benefits of fixed braces, whilst also providing a much more discreet or aesthetically pleasing teeth straightening option. Radiance plus braces are fixed appliances, but rather than traditional metal, the brackets are crafted from smooth, translucent sapphire crystals, providing an extremely strong and discreet teeth straightening solution. 

Made from translucent brackets and wires, Radiance Plus braces are much less noticeable on the teeth than traditional metal braces. 

Iconix aesthetic braces 

Iconix braces are another fixed brace solution that better blends with the colour of your teeth for a more discreet appearance. Iconix fixed braces use stainless steel brackets with a champagne hue, creating a white gold look that does not fade during treatment. The result is a much less noticeable brace, so you can feel confident in the way you smile throughout treatment.  

Book an adult orthodontics consultation 

To find out more about the range of orthodontic treatment options available for adults, it’s important to book a consultation. This will allow an orthodontist to recommend the best suited braces for you, not only in terms of appearance, but to help you achieve the smile you want. 

The Orthodontic Suite is a specialist orthodontic clinic in London, offering first class care and teeth straightening treatments.