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Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
A decent smile is important, but whilst crooked teeth are fixed by braces, the way your teeth come together (the occlusion) is defined more by jaw growth, jaw symmetryc, and jaw proportionality.
Having a small jaw, can lead to crowded lower teeth, and a dental overbite (or prominent overjet). Whilst you can have upper premoalr teeth extracted, and your prominent front teeth moved backwards by orthodontics, it will not fix a small lower jaw.
Orthodontics is possible at any age, but to fixed crooked teeth can sometimes mean much more than braces alone. Jaw correction surgery is also available to correct bad bites caused by having a jaw that is too long, or too short, or that is asymmetrical.
To find out more on the link between braces and jaw correction surgery, you can watch this YouTube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXZ6e0SqTHo
I hope that helps
Paul Coceancig @ Profilo Australia
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Dentist
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Dentist, Orthodontist
I can understand you tend to hide your smile, and this can be frustrating at times. The short answer is there is no age limit for straightening of teeth, though initial teeth movement can be slower in adults and the orthodontist you see would check the medications you are on to check that none of them can slow down teeth movements.
Be aware of the discreet options for teeth straightening now
I come from the perspective of having straightened many kids, teenagers and adults teeth and recommend your speak to your orthodontist about the more discreet options for teeth straightening as an adult ie: clear outside braces or braces attached to behind your teeth. There is even a braces free option of a series of clear removable plates to move your teeth. The most popular brand of this type is called Invisalign.
There are pros and cons for each option, so it is best you speak to your orthodontist on this.
Treatment time
Another worry you mentioned is the length of time of 2 years. Depending of your problems, needs and outcomes you are seeking, treatment times can range from 6 months to 24 months. There are also vibration devices that you can use for 20 minutes each day (one type is called Accelerdent) during your orthodontic treatment that can speed it up.
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Dentist
Just to add to other comments above, you'd be suprised how many adults are straightening their teeth these days, it is becoming much more common. It seems like you are very motivated and I agree with you it would be worth it to have a nice smile for the rest of your life.
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