Have you heard of Phase 1 orthodontics? In short, it’s designed to help young patients who have a mixture of their baby and permanent teeth address overcrowding, overbites, and the like. That’s why some children get braces as young as seven! Others get braces once they are a bit older (usually around the age of 13). If you fall into either of these camps, and your teeth are now misaligned again, you might be wondering if you can get braces twice. Well, here’s the answer!
Can You Get Braces Twice?
The short answer is “Yes, many patients can get braces twice!” Just like your vision, hearing, and weight change over the years, the position of your teeth can change as well – even if you had braces in the past. Oftentimes, this is the result of orthodontic relapse, which occurs when patients don’t wear their retainer consistently and their teeth begin to drift back into their previous, misaligned positions. Of course, dental drift can occur for other reasons as well, including impacted wisdom teeth, tooth loss, and poor habits, like nail-biting.
Why There’s No Such Thing As Being “Too Old” for Braces
After learning that getting braces twice is possible, many patients realize they have another question: Am I too old? It’s important to remember, however, that candidacy for orthodontic treatment is determined by factors like the condition of your oral health, not your age. As a result, patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s can get the straight smile they’ve been missing! In fact, adults are often the most committed patients and don’t experience any treatment delays because they understand the importance of following the guidelines, they brush and floss consistently, and they invest their own money.
The Benefits of Modern Braces
If it’s been a decade or two since you last had braces, you might be surprised how different the orthodontic field is today. Long gone are the days of goopy impressions, lengthy appointments, and uncomfortable metal brackets and wires. With state-of-the-art teeth-straightening treatments like Invisalign, you won’t have to alter your diet or your oral hygiene regimen either! In short, there are several noteworthy benefits of modern braces, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist to learn all about them.
About the Practice
At Simply Orthodontics Worcester, we welcome patients of all ages! Whether you’re interested in getting braces for the very first time or you’re interested in getting braces again because your teeth have shifted over the years, the first step toward a straight smile is simple: schedule a consultation with us. You can do so via our website or by phone at (508) 757-3173. We look forward to hearing from you!