More Adults Now Getting Braces

As your dentist in Springfield, OR, the staff at McKenzie River Dental says that it’s never too late in life to enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile. In fact, it seems that more people are taking that motto to heart, as the results of a new study have found that growing number of adults are seeking orthodontic treatment than ever before. Between 2012 and 2014, adults wanting braces in the U.S. and Canada rose by 16 percent, resulting in a record number (1,441,000) of orthodontic patients over the age of 18, states the results of a new study conducted by the American Association of Orthodontists.

A Rise In Adult Orthodontics

The study by the AAO estimates that 27 percent of all U.S. and Canadian patients receiving orthodontic treatment are adults.

In interviews with many adults who are undergoing or who have completed orthodontic treatment, researchers found that they only regrets expressed by the patients with a wish they had started treatment sooner rather than have waited so long before making the commitment.

Thanks to advanced made in orthodontic technology, many adults are pleasantly surprised when they discover the variety of options available, many of which are so subtle they are practically unnoticeable to others. While the common misconception is that orthodontic care is only for kids, the AAO now has enough data to show that adults report significant improvements in their personal and professional lives after completing orthodontic treatment.

Researchers involved in the study credit the growing number of adults in treatment to the growing understanding that a great looking, healthy smile can help improve professional and social success.

Many adults now feel confident in undergoing orthodontic treatment due to the dual benefits of an improved smile and better oral health. Successfully completing orthodontic treatment provides life-long benefits and can boost an individual’s confidence in many areas of their lives – from giving a big presentation to feeling more confident during one-on-one conversations.

The fact that many orthodontists now offer flexible financing, payment plans without significant down payments, and discounts if payment is made in full prior to beginning treatment has made getting braces more affordable to many adults now than ever before.

Don’t Wait to Get Braces

Healthy teeth can be realigned at any age, and patients of all ages should seriously consider the benefits offered by orthodontic treatments. A beautiful smile is a great investment, no matter what age treatment first begins.

As your dentist in Springfield, OR, the team at McKenzie River Dental is happy to provide patients with a referral to a trusted orthodontist that can help improve the overall state of your smile.

For younger patients, Dr. Schilt can perform an orthodontic evaluation to determine whether they may need braces when older. Dr. Schilt can also answer any preliminary questions parents may have about getting braces for their child.

It’s never too late to get the great looking smile you’ve always wanted