Should I get braces at 53?

Message

#1 Post by **Sandy12** » Fri Sep 18, 2009 10:37 am

I was having a clicking in my jaw and went to an orthodonist who told me I had TMJ. I went thru all the X-rays impressions etc... and was told I needed an appliance and braces. I am a wimp when it comes to pain, so, any advice here? Should I get a second oppinion? Thanks

#2 Post by **socksy** » Fri Sep 18, 2009 1:21 pm

You should definitely get at least a second opinion, and maybe more than that. Before I got my braces put on, I saw five othodontists, and it seems most of us get at least two opinions before make a final decision. Please don't let fear of pain deter you - there is some pain involved but it is very manageable. In the year I've had my braces on, there have been some days that were really painful, but I am still SO glad I finally took the plunge.

#3 Post by **uvraise** » Sat Sep 19, 2009 6:36 am

Sandy, I'll be 40 in a less then two weeks. I have been braced for about 6 months with absolutely no regrets. Your only 53. You could have at least another 40 years ahead of you! Wouldn't it be great to have perfect smile for those years? I say go for it! I would also look into getting it covered by insurance as TMJ syndrome is a clinical medical condition and is usually covered by most medical insurance when given a medical diagnosis.

#4 Post by **hj55** » Sat Sep 19, 2009 7:15 am

I was 53 when I started with braces 10 months ago - now I'm 54. I don't have TMJ so can't say anything about that side of things but as for the braces that has been OK on the whole. I had a sensitive molar mainly during the first month or so, & have had times when my teeth have ached but nothing too awful.

When I'm out & about other people don't notice my braces, it's only me that inspects them regularly at close quarters! I've cleaned my teeth at work and in public places - again no one seems to notice anything!

I don't have any regrets about doing this as I know my dental health has improved already.

#5 Post by **drrick** » Sat Sep 19, 2009 9:44 am

53 is the new 30

If you want them go for it.
My oldest pt was 75.
My dad once put braces on someone in her 90's. She ALWAYS wanted straight teeth so she got them.

What types of symptoms are you having with your jaw?
Pain, headaches, poor range of motion?

#6 Post by **ANGELFLUTTER** » Mon Sep 21, 2009 2:59 am

I am 53 as well. ( Will be 54 in May 2010 ) I will be getting braced in the next month or two. I say GO FOR IT !!! Can't wait to get mine.

#7 Post by **Sandy12** » Mon Sep 21, 2009 7:09 am

Thanks so much for all the positive comments!
As far as the TMJ I am just having a clicking and sometimes when I wake up I have that strange feeling like my jaw will "catch" if I open it too far.
I was going to get a second opinion, but, I am not sure if I am going to or not. The dentist I went to specializes in TMJ and I am not sure I want to go thru the hassle. I have an appointment with another orthodontist Wednesday, but, I may cancel. As crooked as my teeth are I have "no" doubts I need braces.
Yes, I am working with the insurance company. My medical insurance pays a $2500 maximum , so, maybe they will cover some of it. I do not have dental insurance.

#8 Post by **starzz** » Mon Sep 21, 2009 9:34 pm

A second opinion is a good idea, because there could be a difference in opinion on the treatment approach or you may find you like the 2nd ortho better. You are the customer.

#9 Post by **jiggawatt** » Tue Sep 22, 2009 2:01 am

Hi Sandy,

I'm 42 and just got my braces about 3 weeks ago. I have no regrets whatsoever! They way I look at it -- is I've lived long enough with these crooked teeth, ashamed to smile showing my teeth, so I want straight teeth going forward. Spending 2.5 years approx to straighten my teeth is nothing compared to the years I've spent with crooked teeth. Go for it I say!!

#10 Post by **jiggawatt** » Tue Sep 22, 2009 2:02 am

Hi Sandy,

I'm 42 and just got my braces about 3 weeks ago. I have no regrets whatsoever! The way I look at it -- is I've lived long enough with these crooked teeth, ashamed to smile showing my teeth, so I want straight teeth going forward. Spending 2.5 years approx to straighten my teeth is nothing compared to the years I've spent with crooked teeth. Go for it I say!!

#11 Post by **Sandy12** » Tue Sep 22, 2009 8:41 am

Thanks for the positive note! I am pretty sure I will go ahead with it.

#12 Post by **fitchick** » Tue Sep 22, 2009 12:32 pm

Hi Sandy,

It sounds like you've possibly made your decision, but I'd like to add some encouragement as well. I'm afraid I can't help with the TMJ, but I wanted to say Yes!.....absolutely go ahead with it. If you have crooked teeth and want to do something about it, then why not? I treated myself to orthodontics for my 40th birthday and have no regrets whatsoever. And what does your age have to do with your teeth anyway? Once you have a brace everyone will think you are years younger than you actually are, so make the most of it and GO FOR IT! Good Luck from me Sandy.

FC

#13 Post by **Sandy12** » Wed Sep 23, 2009 9:05 am

Ok, so far it is a GO! I have made an appt for impression, then spacers , then the braces! Dec 8th is the actual date. I work in agriculture and I wanted to wait till we got thru the busy fall season to have them put on. That way if I do have any problems with soreness etc...I won't be biting peoples heads off!

Thanks again for all the positive info!

#14 Post by **momilani** » Wed Sep 23, 2009 9:49 am

Go for it -- but do get more than one opinion before starting. Between the $$ and time investment, this is not an enterprise to be undertaken lightly.

I've been braced since April and I'm 58.

Wish I'd done it sooner? Of course.

Glad I'm finally doing it now? Absolutely!