Why Adult Orthodontics Is More Popular Than Ever
It wasn’t long ago that braces were more commonly seen on children and teenagers, but you might have seen more and more adults sporting orthodontic apparatus in recent years. The demand for adult orthodontics is soaring, partly fuelled by social media influencers sporting perfectly straight smiles.
Orthodontics are also becoming more accessible. NHS orthodontics are only available for those under 18 and with a clinical requirement for braces; meaning it doesn’t cover adults or those looking for purely aesthetic improvements.
The rise of private dentistry in the UK means that more cosmetic treatments are available to more people. Simple things like more treatment options and easy payment plans are making it possible for everyone to explore orthodontics regardless of their age.
In this guide, we’re exploring the reasons that adult orthodontics are more popular than ever before.
The rise of adult orthodontics
The biggest driving force behind this change in demand is the introduction of more private dentists in the UK. Private dentistry opens up a whole new world of treatment options that were simply never available on the NHS.
While NHS treatment focuses on the function of your bite and your oral health, private dental care also allows you to explore cosmetic options. This includes teeth whitening, more aesthetic fillings and restorations, and orthodontics.
More treatment options available
It’s not just the rise of private dental care that is driving this trend. The number of treatment options available is also helping to convince adults to straighten their teeth later in life. The TV show Ugly Betty thrust adult braces into the limelight – and made them seem like something you really wouldn’t want. An adult sporting tram track braces was seen as something undesirable.
However, the rise of new treatment options such as Invisalign (clear and removable aligners) or fixed braces with tooth-coloured brackets and clear wires makes it more accessible. Adults can choose more discreet options that don’t involve a mouth full of metal.
However, changing attitudes towards braces mean that many adults are also confidently choosing traditional fixed metal braces without a care in the world. The stigma surrounding adult braces is fading, as they become more popular and accepted.
Spread the cost with payment plans
Cost is often a key consideration when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Many dentists now offer interest-free credit payment plans, which will enable you to spread the cost of treatment. This helps to make more expensive treatments more accessible and affordable.
It means that patients can start treatment straight away, instead of having to wait to save up for their treatment. If you’re hoping to straighten your teeth quickly or for a specific deadline, you’re far more likely to be successful if you can start treatment on your own terms.
Revisiting orthodontics in adulthood
It’s not only patients who are completely new to orthodontics exploring braces in adulthood. Patients who had braces as a teenager may revisit the treatment as an adult. It’s not uncommon for teeth to move back into the previous alignment, particularly if the individual does not wear their night time retainer.
This might prompt them to want to return to orthodontic treatment to restore their perfectly straight smile. There is a common misconception that braces in adulthood won’t work if you had braces as a child or teenager, but this simply isn’t the case. Clearing up these misconceptions is making the treatment plan more accessible.
Better education around oral health
Another simple reason for the rise in adult orthodontics is simply better understanding of how it can benefit your oral health and your wider health. Improved education around orthodontics means that adults are more likely to ask their dentist about this treatment plan. There is far greater understanding that straight teeth not only look great, but they are also easier to care for and less likely to cause issues.
Ready to explore adult braces?
If you’ve been thinking about exploring adult braces, now is a great time to speak to your dentist about the options available. There is a treatment plan to suit every lifestyle and budget, and payment plans mean that no one has to miss out on private treatment due to costs. Book an appointment today to learn more.
Interest-free credit finance available
Spread the cost of your treatment with affordable monthly repayment plans from our finance partner.
