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Family & cosmetic dentist · Family Cosmetic Dentistry, Weston, FL · ADA member
Dr. Ramos treats adults with clear aligners herself at Family Cosmetic Dentistry in Weston, starting with a free orthodontic exam.
Adults ask me this all the time, usually with a little embarrassment: “Is it too late to straighten my teeth?” It is not. And the second question, Invisalign or braces, has a clear answer once I see your bite: neither one is better for everyone; the right choice depends on your teeth and your daily life.
How each one works
Braces are brackets bonded to your teeth and connected by a wire that is adjusted over time. Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are a series of removable plastic trays; each set moves your teeth a little. The American Association of Orthodontists says braces can treat most orthodontic problems, while whether aligners are a good fit depends on the case.
When I suggest clear aligners
- Mild to moderate crowding or spacing.
- Teeth that moved after earlier braces, because a retainer was not worn.
- Adults who meet clients or speak in public and want something less noticeable.
- Patients who are disciplined about wearing the trays.
When braces are the better choice
- Complex bite problems or teeth that need to rotate or move a long distance.
- Patients who know they will not keep trays in. The AAO says aligners must be worn at least 22 hours a day to work.
- Some teenagers, for the same reason.
The 22-hour rule
This is the part I explain most carefully. Aligners only move teeth while they are in your mouth. You take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, brush and floss, and then they go right back in. If that sounds hard with your schedule, braces may give you a better result with less stress.
Cleaning and comfort
With aligners you brush and floss normally, which makes it easier to keep gums healthy. With braces it takes more effort, and I like to see braces patients for cleanings more often. Both can feel tight for a day or two after a change; that is normal. While your teeth are moving, keep your regular checkups.
Cost and insurance
The cost depends on how complex your case is and how long treatment takes, so I give you a written estimate after the exam. If your plan includes orthodontic benefits, many plans treat aligners the same way as braces, but not all do, so we check that with you. Third-party financing and our in-office discount plan can help.
After treatment: retainers
Teeth tend to drift back. Whichever option you choose, you will wear a retainer afterward to keep your result. Many adults finish with teeth whitening, or with veneers or bonding for a chipped edge; you can see all our options on the cosmetic dentist in Weston page.
What I tell my patients
Start with our free orthodontic exam. I look at your bite, take records and tell you honestly which option fits. I treat clear aligner cases myself. We do not offer braces in our office, so if braces are the better tool for your teeth, I tell you so honestly and you can see an orthodontist who offers them. Learn more on our Invisalign page, request an appointment or call (954) 659-9669. Hablamos español.
Questions my patients ask
Is Invisalign as effective as braces?
For many mild to moderate cases, yes, when the trays are worn at least 22 hours a day. For complex bite problems, braces are often the better tool. I place and manage clear aligners myself. We do not offer braces here, so if your case needs them, I will tell you after the exam.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. I check your gums and bone first, because they need to be healthy before we move teeth.
How long does treatment take for adults?
It depends on the case. Simple corrections can take months; complex ones take longer. I give you an estimate at the exam.
Do I need a retainer after Invisalign or braces?
Yes. Teeth tend to move back, and a retainer keeps your result.
Sources
Related care: Invisalign and braces and cosmetic dentistry, or visit our cosmetic dentist in Weston. Ready to come in? Request an appointment.
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