Orthodontics for Adults

Today, more than 30% of orthodontic patients are over 18 years old.  Crooked teeth, improper bite, overcrowding and protrusions are being corrected in many people, regardless of age.

New dental technology has made the process easier and more effective than ever. Better bonding techniques, lighter, less conspicuous wires, miniaturized or clear appliances and even "invisible" braces have all encouraged adults to seek orthodontic treatment.

Simply put, it is one of the best investments you can make in your appearance and your health.

How is Adult Orthodontic Treatment Different?

The major difference between adolescent and adult orthodontic treatment is that adult bones are no longer growing and it may take a little longer for your teeth to move into their correct position.

• Teeth must be cleaned more often - sometimes every 6 weeks to 3 months, depending on the specific problem.
• Teeth sometimes move more slowly.  In general, adult treatment takes between eighteen and thirty months.
• After straightening front teeth that were crowded, a small triangular space may appear at the gum line between these teeth.
• In growing patients, changes in jaw relationships can be achieved with regular treatments.  In adults, similar changes may surgical procedures.
• Rotated teeth, after correction, have a greater chance to relapse.  A periodontal procedure called a "fiberotomy" is sometimes recommended on these rotations before the braces are removed to prevent this relapse.
• If your retainer is worn as directed, small spaces may develop after braces are removed where teeth were extracted prior to treatment.

Your Commitment is Essential

You can expect regular office visits during the course of your treatment, usually once every 4 to 8 weeks.  It is important that you keep each appointment.  You will also need to brush your teeth after every meal and floss as often as possible.  Using a Water Pik® may also be helpful.

Eating the right foods, getting a good night's sleep and limited between-meal snacks will also make your treatment more successful.

Without your commitment to these basic requirements, result will be slower in coming and your treatment may fall short of full achievable goals.  So let's work together as partners in this process.  Combining your committed efforts with our professional treatment will produce lasting results - results you can smile about!

Adults have more choices than ever in creating a beautiful smile.  From traditional braces to "invisible" braces, the number of effective and cosmetically pleasing treatments options is growing all the time.  Current options include:

• Traditional Braces
  Recent improvements in traditional braces have resulted in smaller, stronger, more efficient and less conspicuous brackets.  Metal brackets are the most familiar, however clear and tooth-color ceramic and plastic brackets are now available.  Their clear or natural color gives these brackets a less noticeable look.

• Invisalign®
  Invisalign® is a popular treatment that involves wearing a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth without wires or brackets.