You are never too old for braces, and healthy teeth can be moved at any age. This treatment is similar to comprehensive treatment, but it addresses the specific needs of adult patients who have stopped growing. While changes in the jaw usually can’t be accomplished, this treatment does adjust the alignment of teeth and make a dramatic change in your smile. Whether you didn’t get braces as a child, or you did and stopped wearing your retainer, this treatment can help you achieve a great smile regardless of age.
Bad bites (malocclusions) can be detrimental to a patient’s dental health because of the potential of causing premature wear on the teeth, difficulty in oral hygiene, recession of the gums and/or loss of bone supporting the teeth. Orthodontics will align your teeth for optimum oral health, function, hygiene, and esthetics.
Many adults are seeking the treatment they did not or could not have when they were younger. Technological advances in the industry have provided excellent treatment options for adults.
Age is not a factor in whether someone can undergo orthodontic treatment, as long as the gums and bones that support your teeth are healthy. About 35% of our orthodontic patients are adults, and many of our adult patients are in their 40’s and 50’s.
When teeth are missing, adjacent teeth will drift into the empty space. This will cause a functional, esthetic and/or periodontal problem. Orthodontic treatment can correct and prevent these problems from happening, while providing the proper alignment for your dentist to replace the missing teeth.
The health of the teeth, gums, and supporting bone is very important to the success of orthodontic treatment in adults, as well as children. Because an adult’s bones are no longer growing, corrections of extreme malocclusions involving the facial bones cannot be accomplished with braces or Invisalign alone. Sometimes, adult orthodontic treatment may have to be combined with the efforts of an oral surgeon to achieve the final result.
Braces have come a long way since you were a kid. New technology has resulted in clear and tooth-colored esthetic braces. Advanced wire technology means shorter treatment time and more efficient tooth movement. The good news is that adult orthodontics has never been easier, more efficient, and more comfortable. Nearly one million adults are sporting some form of braces, which is double the number from ten years ago. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age.
If the thought of wearing braces is all that is stopping you from getting the smile you’ve always wanted, we have very good news for you. Invisalign is a breakthrough in orthodontics that uses clear, virtually undetectable tooth aligners to gradually move your teeth without metal wires or brackets. Aligners are removable and custom-made for your teeth through the combination of our expertise and the latest in 3D computer graphic technology. Invisalign straightens your teeth without calling attention to them.
The best way to learn what orthodontic treatment could do for you or your child is to schedule a complimentary initial exam. We will determine the best course of treatment and answer all your questions. Book your initial appointment online now using the link below, or just simply call our office.
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