Best Braces Alternatives for Adults in Winston-Salem [Video Inside]

Many patients visit Dr. Keider with orthodontic concerns but feel they are too old for traditional braces, or simply do not want the look of metal brackets and wires. The bulky feel and noticeable appearance of braces lead older patients to seek out alternatives. That’s where clear aligners come in. They use smooth, high-quality, nearly invisible plastic trays, making it ideal for patients who want a discreet way to straighten their teeth.

If you’re ready for a straighter, more beautiful smile, don’t assume your age is a barrier. More adults than ever before are becoming orthodontic patients later in life. And the low-key look of clear aligners plays a big role in this.

How Clear Aligners Compare to Braces

Many patients choose traditional metal braces because they’re a reliable and effective way to correct misalignment, overcrowding, and malocclusion. However, they do come with drawbacks. One of the biggest concerns is appearance. Metal braces are highly visible and can make patients feel self-conscious.

In contrast, clear aligners are a set of clear, formed trays that snap over your teeth. Once they’re snapped into the mouth, they’re virtually invisible. So people don’t know that you have them on.

Metal braces also come with dietary restrictions. Patients should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods, as they can damage the braces. And because food particles can easily become trapped around the brackets and wires, thorough cleaning after eating is essential. This can make daily brushing and flossing more challenging and time-consuming.

Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are easily removable. At each meal, you can simply remove the trays to avoid getting food stuck in the metal brackets. Clean your mouth as well as you can, and then pop those trays back in.

But aligners aren’t just subtle. They’re also highly effective. Each aligner is molded to your teeth and applies a light, steady force that slowly moves them into a straighter position. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Each set is designed to move your teeth a little closer to their ideal position. That precision starts from day one. Dr. Keider begins the treatment plan by using a special iTero scanner to capture digital impressions of your teeth and jaw in just a few minutes.

While treatment time varies, many patients complete their clear aligner journey in 8 to 12 months.

Why Clear Aligners Are One of the Leading Braces Alternatives for Adults

Clear aligners are one of the best braces alternatives for adults and for good reason. Many adult patients don’t want others to know they’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. The discreet appearance of clear aligner trays makes them an excellent option for adults. In fact, Dr. Keider has seen patients in their 70s finally choose to correct their smiles.

He has seen many patients gain self-esteem by finally being able to smile with straighter teeth in adulthood.

How Much Do Braces Alternatives Cost? Does Insurance Cover Them?

Another consideration adults tend to have is insurance and costs. You might assume that you’re not covered if you’re an adult orthodontic patient. While coverage varies based on your plan, you might be pleasantly surprised to hear that some insurance policies cover orthodontics for adults. We can help you understand your specific plan. As soon as you arrive for a clear aligner consultation, we can call the insurance company and relay that information to you. 

Dr. Keider wants all of his patients to know that, regardless of age, orthodontics is still a viable option. He works very hard to keep the cost of clear aligners down for them and also provides special financing so the cost won’t get in the way.

Schedule a Consultation To Explore Braces Alternatives

Age doesn’t have to be a barrier to accessing high-quality orthodontic treatment. You can reap the advantages of these clear aligners, no matter your age!

Clear aligners offer a range of benefits that make them an appealing alternative to traditional metal braces, especially for adults. The clear aligners are subtle, comfortable, and easy to remove, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions. Cleaning your teeth is simpler, too, with no brackets or wires to work around. If you’re ready to align your smile, schedule an affordable consultation today.