At Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics, our team believes that everyone deserves a beautiful smile, no matter their age. Our team of experts will help you enjoy comfortable and state-of-the-art treatment personalized just for you. You may think orthodontic treatment is for younger patients, but as Dr. Joanna Yu will tell you, a wonderful smile can be achieved at any age. In this post, we will talk about some of the differences between braces as an adult vs getting them when you’re younger. We’ll also review some of the advantages of waiting for your perfect smile.
Technological Improvements
Many adults avoid orthodontic treatment because they think the process will be long and painful or cause significant disruption to their lives. Fortunately, the technological advancements in adult orthodontics have been tremendous in recent years.
Today, there are many options depending on your budget and orthodontics issues. Digital impressions can make the process easier. Minor dental issues can be corrected in a short period of time. The average duration for adult braces is 24 months. With the consultation of your orthodontist, your treatment can be made in a timely manner while maintaining complete comfort, thanks to the advancements in orthodontics.
More Treatment Options
As an adult, your treatment is in your hands. Most younger patients require an adult for permission on certain decisions and can even control treatment plans in certain aspects. Getting and maintaining your braces is entirely up to you as an adult. With the help of your orthodontist, you can navigate your treatment process the way you want and ensure your smile turns out the way you want.
In addition, the options for treatment are constantly changing and expanding with shifts in technology and treatment processes. At Adult and Pediatric Orthodontics, we offer the latest practices, including:
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are a classic treatment option for getting a beautiful smile. Metal braces are bridged together using metal brackets and arches to help straighten your teeth over time. They are typically made of stainless steel and nickel, making the brackets very durable.
Traditional metal braces are a great way to an even better smile. Traditional metal braces are a great way to get an even better smile. They’re an effective option for treating many orthodontic issues and can close gaps. They also align the teeth relatively quickly. Remember, the treatment and care of your braces are essential. Your diet, hygiene routine, and check-ins all factor in the effectiveness of your treatment. Metal braces also help teach proper oral care.
Clear Braces
Clear BracesLike metal braces, clear braces use brackets and wires to help straighten teeth. They are made of ceramic material and are also set with brackets. Clear braces are a popular choice for those who want to blend in during treatment.
The main benefit of getting clear braces is that they are easy to disguise. With the slightly smaller frame, clear braces are designed to blend in with your teeth for a more natural look.
However, it’s important to note that clear braces are more fragile than traditional metal braces. They can also discolor from things like juice or coffee between visits, so it’s important to be careful when choosing clear braces for treatment.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners use a series of invisible aligners to help straighten your teeth. They are typically removable and are designed to fit comfortably on your teeth as they work to enhance your smile.
Clear aligners are a great option for patients who had braces when they were younger and just need a touch-up. They also work well for patients who have mild to moderate dental problems. While clear aligners are a great alternative to braces, there are a few things to note when using aligners to ensure the most effective treatment possible.
Clear aligners don’t require any metal, making them easy to apply and use during treatment. As you progress in the teeth-straightening process, the aligners will slowly shift your teeth into place. Each tray is made to slightly shift your teeth until they are perfectly aligned into a new and improved smile.
Your Teeth Shift As You Age
Did you know that shifting is natural? Whether you forgot to wear your retainer after treatment when you were a teenager or are trying braces for the first time, shifting occurs over time as we age. Although we strongly encourage the use of retainers for every patient as an integral part of your treatment plan, sometimes we find that additional treatment is necessary in order to get the beautiful smile you want.
Many adults that come in for a consultation with Dr. Johanna Yu notice that their teeth have shifted since their teenage years. If you feel your teeth aren’t as straight as they used to be, don’t worry! Another round of treatment can give you the smile touch-up you need.
Improve Your Overall Health
Many adults find that braces actually help improve overall health. Certain orthodontic issues, such as an overbite or underbite, must be fixed to prevent further complications or even surgery. Braces also provide many other health benefits. Common health problems such as headaches, jaw pain, digestion and sleep issues can be avoided by getting braces.
Braces can also do wonders for people who grind their teeth due to misalignment issues. Further, straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene as they are easier to clean and floss.
As with all aspects of personal health, staying on top of your orthodontic and oral hygiene is crucial.
Advance Your Smile With Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics
Advance Your Smile With Adult & Pediatric OrthodonticsAt Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics, we make it our goal to help find a way to improve your family’s teeth and self-esteem. Our team of trained professionals is here to help you achieve the smile you’ve been dreaming of. Whether you are an adult wondering if now is the right time to transform your confidence or looking for treatment for your family, At Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics, you’ll find unique financing and treatment options that can fit anyone. Call us today for your free consultation!