Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontics is not just for children and teens! In fact, 1 in every 4 patients in orthodontic treatment is an adult. No one is too old for orthodontic treatment.

Adults seek orthodontic treatment for many of the same reasons that parents for children do. Some adults had orthodontic problems as children, but were unable to have them corrected until now. Others, who had treatment as children, may need further treatment as adults, due to relapse or limitations in initial treatment. Or some may simply want to improve their smile.

As we grow older, our teeth tend to move inward, creating crowding — a common problem for many teens and adults. As a result, it may be difficult to keep teeth clean and healthy.

Benefits of Adult Orthodontics

Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment in many ways. These include:

• Align the teeth to create a more esthetic and beautiful smile
• Correct relapse after previous orthodontic treatment due to lack of long term retainer wear
• Improve the ability to brush and floss, especially for crowded or overlapping lower front teeth
• Create a better or more comfortable bite and ability to chew
• Address missing teeth
• Close spaces between the teeth
• Reduce excessive wear on the teeth due to grinding or poor bite
• Jaw surgery to correct discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws.

Appearance of Braces

Many adults are concerned with the appearance of braces. However, it is an exciting time, as new technologies have opened up a whole new world for adults. The Pitts21 Braces System, used by elite orthodontists all over the world, has brackets placed closer to the gums and are therefore less visible, while helping to create that WOW smile in an incredibly efficient time! Clear upper brackets are available, if desired. For those adults who are candidates, Invisalign® can be used for orthodontic treatment. This technology involves clear removable Aligners, fabricated through advanced 3D imaging to align the teeth.

Soreness and Discomfort

Typically, the teeth are most uncomfortable from one to seven days after the braces are first placed. Modern appliances are smaller and more comfortable to wear. Due to innovations in orthodontics and the use of titanium, less pressure is put on the teeth. Bite and alignment are actually corrected faster and with much less discomfort this way. It also increases the time required between adjustments to every eight to twelve weeks. Treatment time varies with each case.

Investment

Your investment for adult orthodontic treatment is determined the same way as for child or teen treatment. It is based upon the severity of the problem, the complexity of the correction, the appliances used, and the length of time to correct. We offer flexible payment options to fit your needs.