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Bobby245 · Jun 1, 2009, 01:43 AM

Hi, am 27 and have got some problem with my teeth. The orthodontist says, I may need braces, but the problem is that he says I may have to use retainers for the whole life, as am already 27 and it's not sure that teeth get fixed at one position.

Q1: Is it true that I may have to use them for the whole life?
Q2: Can we say that this treatment will make my teeth weak as we are moving them from their actual position and then due to age factor they cannot be fixed at one position and that's the reason I may have to use the "Retainers" for the whole life.
Q3: Is it okay to get the braces treatment done at the age of 27?

Thanks
Bobby245

flossie · Jun 1, 2009, 06:36 AM

Hi Bobby,

To answer your questions:

1. Everyone who has orthodontic treatment generally wear retainers. The reason for the retainers is to keep the teeth in place after they have been moved. Most do not want to spend thousands of dollars having their teeth straightened and then in a few years time find that their teeth have returned to their original position. There are 2 kinds of retainers, removable and fixed. Most prefer the fixed as they provide a better guarantee of the teeth not shifting and they don't have to worry about losing or damaging the removable kind.

2. The previous answer answers part of your number 2 but your teeth will not become weak due to the movement. You will be at risk of decay while you wear the braces but with optimum home care you can get through the whole process without a cavity. Your age has nothing to do with the retainers.

3.I've had clients in their 60's get braces. Obviously teeth will move easier the younger you are and growth spurts can be taken advantage of but you are never to old for braces. Your smile at the end of treatment will be well worth monthly visits to your orthodontist.

Good luck!

FrootyGummiBear · Jun 8, 2009, 10:59 AM

My mom got her braces taken off recently and they put in a permanent retainer behind her bottom teeth, both of my aunts have one too. She also has to put in clear plastic retainers in each night. Soon shell only have he permanent one.