Adult Orthodontists

Reasons why adults are seeking orthodontic treatment

Adults seek orthodontic treatment for various reasons. Many want to straighten teeth that have shifted over time or are referred by their general dentist for issues like making space for an implant or preparing for crowns, bridges, or veneers. These concerns can often be addressed quickly and easily with clear aligners like Invisalign or traditional braces. Others have more complex needs, such as straightening teeth, fixing bites, or addressing facial concerns, jaw misalignment, TMJ pain, worn teeth, or significant crowding. While clear aligners or traditional braces can help with these issues, they typically require a more comprehensive approach.

Orthodontic treatment appliances for adults

1. Clear aligners (Invisalign)

Clear aligners are commonly referred to as “invisible braces” or Invisalign. These are clear, plastic, molds of your teeth which fit around your teeth. Clear aligners come in a series of trays or aligners and progressively move the teeth a small amount each time the aligners are changed. You will typically move on to the next aligner every 10 days. Clear aligners are also the only type of orthodontic appliance that is removable. They need to be worn 20-22 hours daily to achieve excellent and predictable results.

Clear aligners are best for people with specific orthodontic conditions, like mild crowding, overbite, and open-bite. We often use them for more mild orthodontic problems. If you have mild dental problems on one jaw and severe problem on the other jaw, we will often combine clear aligners with traditional braces to ensure that your treatment time is minimized and your treatment results are more predictable.

2. Traditional braces?

Braces have come a long way over the years! They more discrete and comfortable and come in a variety of materials (gold, silver, or clear ceramic). While clear aligners have gained traction in recent years due to their esthetic and subtle properties, traditional braces remain a highly efficient way to correct any kind of orthodontic condition in a short amount of time.

What to expect from orthodontic treatment as an adult:

Because adult orthodontic treatment is often more complex, we take a highly personalized, thorough, and comprehensive approach to diagnosis, planning, and treatment.

Initial consultation: At your first appointment, we will examine your teeth, gather your concerns, and give you information on the state of your oral and orthodontic health. We will also give you several treatment options to choose from.

Planning phase: If you decide to pursue treatment with our office, we will take a series of thorough records consisting of a 3D scan, photos, and X-rays. We will also ensure that you have recently visited with your general dentist. This is especially important with adults since adults commonly have other age-related dental needs such as worn teeth or gum disease. We will coordinate with your general dental office to ensure that your orthodontic treatment is done in conjunction with your restorative (tooth filling/crown/implant-related) or periodontal (gum-related treatment) treatments.

Getting braces or clear aligners: At this appointment, you will be getting your braces or clear aligners. We will explain what you can expect over the days that follow getting your braces and will give you tips and tricks on getting used to your new appliances!

We make orthodontic treatment affordable

Overwhelmingly, our adult patients do not regret pursuing orthodontic treatment. An investment in your smile is an investment in your future health, confidence, and overall well-being.

Our patients are often pleasantly surprised to find out that we offer a variety of 0% interest, in-house financing payment plan options. We strongly believe that the best payment plan is the one that works for you. We understand that different families and individuals have different financial needs and circumstances. That is why we are committed to accommodate our payment plans to fit your financial situation and ensure you’re comfortable moving forward.

For more information about adult orthodontic treatment options, including the cost of treatment, what you can expect, and how to care for your teeth, braces or clear aligners, contact our office and book a free consultation today.