Adult Braces

[obftfro10]

Hi everyone!

For the past year or so I have been in a splint 24/7 to prepare my teeth/bite for braces. I have been told I am ready for the next phase of treatment and advised to transition to metal braces asap. I am keen to be rid of the splint but have delayed moving forward due to anxiety around wearing braces as an adult (28) for a significant amount of time.

I have started the process with the splint so can't back out now, but also can't find the motivation to make the appointment as its always seemed so far away and not really real! I am only delaying the inevitable and know its whats best for the health of my teeth and jaw but can't seem to get over the mental obstacle.

Would really appreciate any advice from others who've experienced something similar on how to gather the courage to go through with treatment despite the anxiety?

 

[letsconnect]

Hi @obftfro10 do you know what exactly you're anxious about regarding braces?

 

[obftfro10]

@letsconnect thank you for getting back to me! I think the anxiety comes mainly from the permanence of the braces and lack of control. I am still new to orthodontic treatment as an adult as I never had braces as a child, and up to now I have only worn a removable splint. I have been told I'll have to wear the braces for roughly 3 years to get everything sorted, which feels hard to adjust to when they're on full time!

 

[letsconnect]

Yes that must be quite daunting! Unfortunately I can't help with a personal experience of wearing braces, but you might be interested in this forum which has a lot of stories/personal experiences posted over the years, so it's great for reading:

https://www.archwired.com/phpbb2/index.php

You could also try searching on Facebook for terms like:

• "Adults with Braces"
• "Braces Support Group"
• "Adult Braces Support"

There are a number of private groups on there, but you need to join in order to read them and post there (those types of groups tend to allow anonymous posts).

Hopefully somebody on here can also relate and share their experiences!

 

[honeybee91]

I have no advice to give but I want you to be reassured that adults wearing braces is not uncommon! I’m 34 and will be getting braces in the next year or two (I need to combat my gum disease) I have an over bite and crooked bottom teeth. Are you a candidate for Invisalign?

 

[obftfro10]

@honeybee91 thank you so much and good luck on your braces journey! Unfortunately because of some jaw issues I am not a candidate for invisalign and was told by the orthodontist that fixed metal braces is their preferred route.

 

[Dr. Daniel]

Hi. Wearing braces is usually not easy in the beginning. Does your orthodontic office offer a quick response for emergencies? An experienced ortho assistant can help with all kinds of tricks until you get accustomed. Later on, maintaining excellent oral health is also an opportunity to improve and even perfect your oral hygiene (maybe it is already perfect) also years after the treatment completion.