Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

When deciding whether to start braces, Invisalign®, or other orthodontic treatments, many patients ask if age is a factor for candidacy. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, you are never too old for orthodontic treatment. That said, the orthodontic treatment process can become more complex as we age. This is because the teeth and jawbones are more firmly set in place, making moving them into the desired position more difficult.

However, this doesn’t mean that orthodontic treatment is impossible for adults. In fact, Dr. Ciro Cabal of Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX, states that about half of his patients that undergo treatment are adults.

Suppose you’re looking for a way to improve your smile’s appearance, function, and health. In that case, Dr. Cabal will consider the following factors when determining if you qualify for orthodontic treatment:

Bone Density

Bone density plays a crucial role in orthodontic treatment. The density of the bone determines how the teeth move, and it affects the success of orthodontic treatment. If the bone density is low, the teeth may not move as well or as quickly as they should, which could result in a longer treatment time or even a failure to achieve the desired results. On the other hand, if the bone density is too high, the teeth may move too quickly, which can cause problems such as root resorption.

Therefore, our Fort Worth orthodontist must consider bone density when planning orthodontic treatment. He may recommend additional treatments or procedures to help improve bone density and ensure the best possible outcome for your treatment.

Condition of Teeth

At some point in your life, you may experience tooth decay and damage—and the condition of the teeth can have a significant impact on orthodontic treatment. For instance, if the patient has cavities, periodontal (gum) disease, or missing teeth, our orthodontist may require additional procedures before officially starting treatment.

Similarly, if the teeth are decayed or have cavities, they must be treated before starting orthodontic treatment. Moreover, the position of the teeth and their relationship with the jaws and the bite can affect how they are moved during treatment.

Oral Habits

Smoking and bruxism (teeth grinding) can significantly negatively impact one’s smile—especially during orthodontic treatment. Smoking can slow down the movement of teeth and impair the healing process, leading to longer treatment times and increased risk of complications. Bruxism can cause physical damage to orthodontic appliances, which can also lengthen the treatment time and increase the risk of needing additional procedures. Other bad habits, such as nail-biting or chewing on pens, can also cause damage to the braces or appliances and should be avoided during treatment.

Certain Health Conditions and Medications

Certain health conditions and medications can disqualify you from orthodontic treatment. These include severe gum disease, untreated tooth decay, and tumors. Additionally, medications such as bisphosphonates and certain chemotherapy drugs can also exclude you from orthodontic treatment. Hence, it’s essential to disclose any health conditions or medications you are taking before beginning treatment.

Schedule a Free Consultation for Adult Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX

The length and type of treatment will vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and goals. Still, with proper care and attention, orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Text or call (817) 236-7846 to schedule your free consultation for orthodontic treatment in Fort Worth, TX.