How is Adult Treatment Different?
When it comes to adult orthodontic procedures, the main difference compared to treatments for children and adults is that they tend to take longer even though the process itself is more or less the same. This is because by that point the teeth are fully grown, and the jawbone is denser. Also, adults are more prone to suffer from smoking and teeth grinding, which could both have an impact on orthodontic treatment. Older patients might also have advanced gum disease or infected teeth that need to be addressed before moving on with orthodontic treatment. However, orthodontic treatment may still be possible even if you currently have a crown or another restoration in your mouth.
What Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?
Except for pediatric orthodontics (which are specifically designed for a specific time in life), adults can benefit from any type of orthodontic treatment. Naturally, this includes traditional metal braces, which remain widely in use due to the complex corrections they can make. That said, many older patients prefer Invisalign since it’s much less visible and does not impose any restrictions on your diet or oral hygiene routine. Other options include the more comfortable self-ligating braces or the more attractive clear/ceramic braces. The pros and cons of all the appropriate forms of treatment will be discussed with you beforehand so that you can choose the one that’s right for you.
Next Steps
After we’ve given you your orthodontic appliance, we’ll walk you through the steps of taking care of it. Proper maintenance will help you avoid emergencies later and ensure that the treatment doesn’t take longer than it needs to. You’ll come back to our orthodontic office once every one or two months (depending on which treatment you’ve received) for an examination and/or an adjustment. Don’t forget to take care of your orthodontic appliance by visiting your general dentist, avoiding certain foods, and maintaining an excellent oral care routine.