Is it ever too late to get braces?

[TexasStooge]

By Dr. Linda Niessen, Baylor College of Dentistry

Is it ever too late to get braces on your teeth?

Dentists say no. In fact, business is booming in orthodontic offices among patients over age 60.

Marilyn Lee sells real estate. Bill Powell sells insurance.

Both of them feel a friendly smile can help make a sale. But in order to hide their crooked teeth, they only manage a weak grin.

“So it was half appearance and half a health issue. I'm 61-years-old and wear braces. So that’s kind of unique," said Powell, aged 61.

“I noticed the overbite was becoming more pronounced and it was making me self-conscious. I decided to do something about it," said Lee.

The only requirement to be an orthodontic patient is to have healthy teeth and gums. There is no age limit.

"There’s absolutely no reason why we can’t move teeth orthodontially. Really as long as you have healthy teeth," said Dr. Mark Ozier, and orthodontist.

He says patients over 60 complain less and cooperate more than their younger counterparts.

“Better cooperation with the adult. You can only imagine why. There’s something to be said for maturity. And who’s paying for it maybe," he says.

Dr. Ozier uses a type of orthodontic wire made out of shape memory alloy. The special wire translates into fewer visits and greater patient comfort.

Marilyn spent two years in her braces, which were removed six months ago.

“I wish I had done it earlier. I’m glad I did it," she said.

Bill completes his treatment in another year.

"I don’t think it’s never too late," he says.

So if you have grandchildren in braces - that might be your best referral. You might ask them, who is your orthodontist?

[Skywatch_NC]

I'm glad those years of fun are behind me!

Eric