Older mum braces

[hazeldaze]

Considering getting braces at 48. Looking for pro's and con's (although I probably know and just want the reassurance!). Teeth are very crowded and squinty and I'm feeling so conscious of them when I smile.
Had a consultation with orthodontist and they recommend 3 teeth out (ouch) and train tracks top and bottom to straighten and keep the bite correct. My teeth are so-so in terms of health. Quite a lot have fillings. So, I'm nervous about removing healthy teeth for this. Nervous that at 48, there might not be much lifespan left in my teeth. Am I wasting my time, energy and money getting this done at a late stage, or should I go for it and make the most of the improvement it makes?

Recently had an appointment to discuss straightening my teeth too. I've got an overbite and some crooked teeth. The overbite will apparently require teeth removal to make space then train tracks.

Alternative offered was just to straighten them up and leave the overbite. I'm 35 and thinking maybe this is the best option. If I do this I can have Invisalign instead of proper braces which will be more convenient for me and less noticeable. I'm so used to the overbite and odd jaw shape that maybe I should just be okay with it by this age!? Would be a bit of a confidence boost to have them straighter though.

What does being an older mum have to do with it?

I don't think I'd be keen on having three teeth out...I'd be asking to keep all healthy teeth while you can

I had three teeth out as mouth was too small and have been using Invisalign; teeth are much better and it’s amazing that they now actually bite properly through food! Straight teeth are pretty; functioning teeth are quite incredible. Love looking at the lovely pattern when I bite into a sandwich lol

I had orthodontal work as a teenager but my teeth moved back as I got older.

I had them straightened again in my 40 with invisalign braces and have no regrets at all. This time I was given a retainer and they will not move again!

Re removing teeth I am not a dentist but if you mouth is overcrowded it will be harder to keep the teeth clean however maybe having some removed will enable the remaining teeth to be better looked after and therefore healthier?

If they are overcrowded they are at more risk of decay as you can't clean between them easily, so have them out.

I have braces at the minute at the grand old age of 45 (fixed ones not Invisalign) it wasn’t planned to have a tooth extraction initially but a failed root canal has meant I’ve had one removed since starting the process.

I’ve still probably got at least another year to go but so far the changes have been amazing.

I had train track braces on the top at 48, I wanted straight teeth for my 50th.
I decided on them as I didn't fancy Invisalign, didn't trust myself to keep putting them in and out. I had no problems and am really glad I did it, have never regretted it

I had train tracks at 48!! I opted to not have teeth out. Apparently too lip would sink back. I like a full lip on the rare occasions I wear lipstick! Overbite is still a bit apparent but actual teeth are lovely! Took 10 months. Cost me £1500 - orthodontist charged me NHS rate only. Paid deposit the payments at each appointment of my chosen amount. Mr Smith you rock!!

I had braces at 48. No regrets and am always pleased when I look back at old pictures and remember what they used to be like. I'd not be keen to have teeth out though as I'm already quite a few short after orthodontic treatment as a teenager.

Well I'm wondering how much longevity my teeth are going to have at this age. I've heard in menopause it also brings gum receding and other gum problems, causing tooth issues. I guess if I was much younger I might not think twice. Now I'm torn between spending a lot of money for something that might potentially not last too long.

Hmm didn't think of this factor too, thanks

I'm 54 and on tray 3 of 35 in my invisalign programme.