At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Elizabeth Haynes offers braces for adults as part of her top-notch orthodontic services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.
Think braces are just for kids? Think again. With the many different types of braces that are available today, it’s never too late to opt for braces. In fact, adults make up nearly half of the orthodontic patient population who dream of the perfect smiles that braces can offer.
For many adults, the thought of getting braces as a child was financially worrisome, but as adults, that may no longer be an issue, and the decision to get them becomes easier.
What Are Braces?
Braces consist of bands, wires, and other fixed or removable corrective appliances that work by applying continuous pressure over a period of time and gradually shift teeth to move in a specific direction. Braces usually remain on teeth for a period of about one to three years, and after removal, patients often wear a retainer, which is a simple wire that sits over the teeth.
What Are the Types of Braces for Adults?
With advancements in orthodontics in the past several years, the shiny metal braces, though still available, are not the only option. At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Elizabeth Haynes offers several choices to patients, including the following:
- Traditional metal – Typically used for severely crooked teeth.
- Clear or Ceramic – Ceramic braces that are made of a clear material and are much less obvious than traditional metal braces. Brackets may also be attached to the back of the teeth, holding wires that will pull the teeth into a new position.
- Plastic aligners – These fit like mouth guards over the teeth, gently moving the bite into a new position.
How Long Will I Need to Wear Braces?
How long any patient will have to wear their braces depends on the extent of treatment. Most range from 12 to 44 months, although adult teeth sometimes take longer to move into new positions. Once teeth have moved into their desired position, patients likely will need to wear a retainer.
What Are the Benefits of Adult Braces?
There are several benefits, and thus several reasons, why people choose to get braces as an adult. Perhaps the main reason is simply because they want a straighter smile. Braces also fix shifting teeth, which can happen as much for an adult as it can for a child. Braces also improve a person’s oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to brush and clean, so if a patient is doing their part, they can expect less tooth decay and healthier gums with their straighter teeth. Braces also can help manage some more serious issues as well, such as bite problems that can cause jaw pain, and in some cases, braces may be needed to change the position of surrounding teeth for a new bridge, crown, or implant.
Why Choose Dr. Elizabeth Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?
Dr. Elizabeth Haynes is well known for her skill, experience, and caring. She is an accredited orthodontist with the American Dental Association, the American Association of Orthodontics, the Maryland State Society of Orthodontics, and the District of Columbia Dental Society.
How Much Do Braces Cost in Greenbelt, MD?
The cost for braces varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.
Your dental insurance may cover the cost of braces. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your braces coverage.
We provide financing through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket braces costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our braces patients.
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How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!The general dental and orthodontic services we offer at University Centre Dental Associates have improved the lives of people from in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Whether you are an adult, a child, or a teenager, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve.