What To Expect When Getting Braces In Your 60

REAL LIFE STORY| I got braces at 61, and I’m so happy about it! I have an overbite, not a Freddie Mercury one, but just enough to make me feel a little self-conscious when I smile.

That hasn’t had a major impact on my life because I don’t make my living from my physical appearance, so I had accepted my fate and made peace with it. However, since I’ve started to promote my podcast and meet with more people over Zoom, I’m more conscious of what impression I make.

And for better or worse, an overbite can make you look a little goofy.

Is it worth it to get braces at 60?

Then, about three months ago I was at my dentist for my usual check-up, and he commented that my gums had started to recede and that I would be a great candidate for Invisalign, which would address the gum problem.

Five months of plastic alignment trays and my teeth could be straight and at a fraction of the cost of conventional braces.

That night, I had a chat with my best friend who suggested I check out the online version, which was less expensive and didn’t require dentist visits. I followed the link and they offered a coupon–that made it almost impossible for me to resist. There were lots of before and after photos (although I didn’t see a grey-haired person among them). So, I started to get excited. Maybe I could have straight teeth too!

The upsides of adult braces

But could I justify the investment? At this age? I have wrinkles and I stopped dying my hair years ago. I wear minimal makeup and get an easy-to-manage haircut. I’d rather be out playing tennis or hiking with my dogs than contouring my cheekbones. My dress-up shoes are patent leather Birkenstocks.

There’s only so much I’m willing to do for beauty. Was investing in my physical looks “on brand” for me? But the idea of having straighter teeth, well that was a different story!

I realized that if I had straighter teeth I would smile more. Feeling more comfortable smiling would actually add quality to my life, and even the lives of others. And based on the current longevity trends, I have another twenty-plus years to enjoy my straight teeth.

It didn’t take long for me to say “Yes!” I’m only seven weeks into my straightening and the change is noticeable. I think I’m already starting to smile more. It’s been a worthwhile investment and I can’t wait to see the final results!

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