If you are a senior considering dental implants, you may have to worry about issues other dental patients don't have to think about. For example, you may need more time to recover after receiving your implants. My name is Jodi, and I've been working with seniors for years. I decided to create this blog to help the seniors I can't meet in person. In this space, I'm going to post entries on everything related to dental implants and seniors. From tips on flossing implants after arthritis has claimed some of your dexterity, to guiding you through the implants-vs-dentures debate, this blog is designed for you. Thanks for reading. I hope you find what you need!
When we're busy juggling our day-to-day responsibilities, it's easy to push aside those regular dental ch
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Many adults wish that they had straighter, more attractive-looking teeth, but may not like the idea of braces, which can be unsightly and give a childish appearance. However, there are now many options available to adults now, including retainers, lingual braces, and Invisalign braces. This short article aims to describe three of the most popular options in more detail.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces, in contrast to more traditional braces, are placed behind the teeth where they cannot be seen. This makes them a viable option for adults who don't want to look as if they are wearing braces, and in terms of moving and straightening your teeth, they are as efficient as regular braces.
However, there are two big downsides to lingual braces, the first being the price. They are often more expensive than other options, due to the cost of the appliance and of training. The second issue is that they are harder to clean, and you cannot see if there is food stuck in them. If budget isn't a big consideration for you and you are strongly against having braces on the front of your teeth, lingual braces are an option to investigate.
Invisalign Braces
Invisalign braces are becoming more popular every year, especially with adults who want a full straightening treatment but don't want the appearance of braces. They are almost completely invisible, many dentists have begun to offer them, and many now offer free consultations or monthly payment plans in an effort to appeal to adults. The average treatment time is as little as 12–18 months, though results can be seen sooner. Invisalign is a good option for adults who have more crooked teeth, and who wish that they had had braces as children. They are also suitable for correcting the slight crookedness that can sometimes be seen years after braces have been removed.
Retainers
A retainer is a custom-made device that was invented to keep the teeth in place. Patients typically wear retainers for at least a year after your braces are removed. There are both clear and visible retainers, and there are fixed or removable options to choose from.
However, a lesser-known fact is that wearing a retainer alone, without braces, may be able to straighten your teeth. For adults, a clear, removable retainer may be the best option, as it would allow for everyday subtlety and removal for special events. The main advantage of straightening your teeth with a retainer is that it is hardly visible, and can be taken out for dates, parties and meals to suit your needs. There may also be a slight cost advantage over more invasive treatments.
However, the downside is significant — not only can a retainer only correct small defects and gaps between teeth, it takes a long time. Thus, the length of treatment may be a problem for many. However, for those with only slightly crooked teeth, it may be worth investigating.
Think carefully about how you want to straighten your teeth, if treatment is necessary, and how each different option fits your lifestyle and budget. If you are unhappy with your teeth and wish for them to be straighter, speak to your dentist to find out about the available treatments.
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