It’s Never Too Late for a Healthier, More Confident Smile
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teens—more adults than ever are choosing braces to improve their smiles and oral health. At Hansen Orthodontics, we provide braces for adults in Wichita, KS, offering customized treatment plans to help you achieve the straight, healthy smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you missed out on braces as a child or need to address shifting teeth, our expert team is here to help.
Why Consider Braces as an Adult?
Many adults assume it’s too late for orthodontic treatment, but the truth is that braces can work at any age. Straightening your teeth can lead to better oral health, improved function, and greater confidence in both personal and professional settings.
Common reasons adults choose braces include:
- Crooked or crowded teeth that make cleaning difficult
- Bite misalignment that causes discomfort or jaw pain
- Teeth shifting due to aging or past extractions
- Gaps or spacing issues affecting smile appearance
- Desire for a more confident smile
If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment, a consultation at Hansen Orthodontics can help determine the best option for your needs.
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults in Wichita
While adult orthodontic treatment is similar to treatment for younger patients, there are some key differences. Since adult teeth and jaws are fully developed, treatment may take slightly longer compared to children and teens. However, with advancements in orthodontics, there are more discreet and comfortable options available for adults than ever before.
At Hansen Orthodontics, we offer several braces options to fit your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences, including:
- Traditional metal braces
- Clear ceramic braces
- Gold braces
- Champagne (rose gold) braces
- Self-ligating braces
During your consultation, we will discuss the best treatment option based on your goals and dental needs.
Life with Braces as an Adult
Choosing braces as an adult may require some adjustments, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. Here’s what you can expect:
Eating with Braces
Certain foods—such as hard, sticky, or chewy items—should be avoided to prevent damage to your braces. However, most meals can still be enjoyed with simple modifications, like cutting up crunchy foods into small pieces.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Braces require extra attention to keep teeth and gums healthy. To prevent plaque buildup, we recommend:
- Brushing after every meal
- Using a water flosser or orthodontic flossers for easy cleaning
- Rinsing with mouthwash to keep gums healthy
Managing Discomfort
It’s normal to experience mild soreness after getting braces or after an adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help with any irritation.
Professional & Social Considerations
Many adults worry about how braces will affect their daily life, but with options like clear or champagne-colored braces, treatment can be subtle and discreet. Plus, the long-term benefits of a straight, healthy smile far outweigh any temporary concerns.
If you’re considering braces for adults in Wichita, KS, Hansen Orthodontics is here to help. Our team will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle, goals, and budget.