You’re never too old to benefit from orthodontic treatment. Today, adults make up about one in every four orthodontic patients. Here’s why:
Looking Good: Orthodontic treatment can help correct crooked teeth or spaces that you’ve been self-conscious about for years. It can give you the confidence and pride that come with straight teeth and a great smile.
Teeth Can Shift: Believe it or not, tooth movement doesn’t stop in adolescence. Teeth that seemed straight and aligned in youth could have shifted later in life. This can lead to jaw pain, trouble brushing, or a smile you’re left unhappy with.
Maintaining Dental Health: Leaving misaligned teeth untreated may lead to other dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease, as well as abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces and difficulty in chewing. Orthodontic treatment can help you keep good dental health.
Why is Orthodontic Treatment Important for Adults?
- Can help prevent or improve periodontal problems
- Can help prevent or reduce further bone loss around teeth
- Improves ability of the dentist to restore missing teeth
- Improves aesthetics for a better smile and facial appearance
- Improves function of teeth
- Improves self-confidence and self-esteem
- Improves oral health
Is orthodontic treatment effective for adults? Yes. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children. Orthodontic forces move teeth in the same way for both adults and children.
Do appliances have to show? Many options are available today to minimize the appearance of braces. Today’s braces are smaller and sleeker, and some are next-to-invisible. Dr. Henneberry can advise you as to what options are recommended for your particular needs. More information on types of braces can be found here, including Invisalign and Incognito (braces that fit on the inside surface of the teeth). These options allow you to have flexibility in treatment and allow discretion in treatment.
Will orthodontic treatment fit my lifestyle? You can do almost anything during orthodontic treatment – sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken. Some adjustments may be necessary, but, if you’re like the vast majority of adult patients, you’ll adjust quickly. New techniques and materials today have made wearing braces more comfortable, and less intrusive than ever.
Am I a good fit for orthodontic treatment? During your consultation, Dr. Henneberry can determine if you will benefit from treatment. After carefully analyzing the nature of your needed correction, Dr. Henneberry will recommend the best course of treatment for improving your smile, including the different types of braces that are best for your treatment.
I’m missing some teeth. Can orthodontic treatment improve my bite? Orthodontic treatment can create or hold space to replace missing teeth. Dr. Henneberry will work with your dentist or dental specialist who will provide bridges or implants so that you can achieve the best result.
I’ve been treated for gum disease. Can my teeth be straightened? Dr. Henneberry will consult with your dentist and/or periodontist about the health of your gums. If you are a candidate for orthodontic treatment, you will continue regular supervision with your dentist and periodontist. In many cases, tooth alignment can improve the health of the gums.
How much does treatment cost? The cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity and length of treatment. Dr. Henneberry will be glad to discuss the cost with you before treatment begins. Patients are finding that braces are more affordable today than ever. At Henneberry Orthodontics, we offer a variety of convenient payment plans, and accept many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits.
Why select an orthodontist? Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities. Dr. Henneberry received an additional three full years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
Problems to Watch for in Adults: Malocclusions, some of which are illustrated below, can be improved by orthodontic treatment. If you live with one or more of these dental issues, and would like to improve your smile, please contact us by setting up a free consultation. We would love to discuss your orthodontic options and develop a treatment plan that is customized to your needs and desires.
