Do you have an imperfect smile? Have traditional braces not worked for you in the past? Orthodontic treatment is recommended for adults, too, and there are a variety of options available that can help you regain confidence in your smile. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about aesthetics — it also helps protect your teeth and prevent future dental issues like gum disease and tooth loss. In this guide, we will explore Orthodontics as a treatment option for adults, assess the different types of Orthodontic treatments available, how Orthodontic treatments may benefit you, and answer some FAQs along the way.
Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the alignment and straightening of the teeth and jaw to create a better bite for improved oral health. Orthodontic treatments and devices can help improve your smile’s appearance by making your teeth appear straighter, more attractive, and more uniform. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about aesthetics; it also helps protect your teeth from future dental issues like gum disease and tooth loss while also helping restore function as biting, chewing, and speaking become easier with Orthodontic alignment. Orthodontists are specially trained in the use of corrective appliances such as braces, aligners or retainers which are used to move the teeth into their desired position over a period of time. Orthodontic treatment can be just as effective for adults as it is for children and teens, and the process may even be faster and more efficient than with younger patients.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
Braces
Braces are the traditional Orthodontic treatment used to straighten teeth. Modern braces use brackets that are bonded to the individual tooth surfaces, along with arch wires which help guide them into their desired positions. Clear or “invisible” braces are also available; they are typically made up of clear plastic trays which fit snugly around the teeth and gently move them into place. Braces require regular visits to an Orthodontist for tightening and adjustments, but the end result is often a straighter and more attractive smile.
1: Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional metal braces in that they have brackets bonded to individual tooth surfaces, however they are made of clear ceramic instead of metal. This makes them less noticeable and can speed up Orthodontic treatment times compared to traditional braces.
2: Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are quite different from other Orthodontic treatments as they are placed on the backside of the teeth so that they remain unseen when smiling or talking. They work in a similar way to traditional braces but offer individuals who don’t want to show off their Orthodontic treatment an option.
Aligners
Aligners are clear, removable trays that fit snugly around the teeth and gently shift them into position over time. They’re a popular Orthodontic treatment for adults because they are virtually invisible when worn, as well as being more comfortable than traditional braces. Aligners require regular visits to an Orthodontist or dental specialist to monitor progress but can be removed for brushing and flossing making them easier to maintain than other Orthodontic treatments.
Invisalign
Invisalign is one of the most popular aligner-based Orthodontic treatments. They are made from a custom-molded set of clear plastic trays which fit snugly to the base of your teeth, gently shifting them into position over time. Invisalign requires regular visits with an Orthodontist to monitor progress and make adjustments but is a much less intrusive Orthodontic treatment than traditional braces or lingual braces.
ClearCorrect
ClearCorrect is another popular Orthodontic treatment for adults. It works in a similar way to Invisalign by using custom-made aligners that fit snugly around the teeth and move them into their desired position over time. ClearCorrect treatments require fewer Orthodontist appointments and offer better results in terms of overall Orthodontic alignment.
Adult Orthodontic treatments offer individuals a way to straighten their teeth, protect them from future dental issues, and restore function and aesthetics. Orthodontists are specially trained in the use of Orthodontic appliances such as braces, aligners, or retainers which can be used either alone or together depending on individual needs. Orthodontics for adults is just as effective as for children and teens but may even require fewer visits with an Orthodontist due to advances in technology and materials.
FAQs
Q1: How long does adult Orthodontics take?
A: The length of time required for adult Orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of the individual case. In general, Orthodontic treatments for adults take anywhere from 6 to 24 months.
Q2: Are Orthodontics painful?
A: Orthodontic treatments can cause some discomfort when first applied and during follow up visits as Orthodontists may need to make adjustments or tighten them over time. However, most Orthodontic treatments are designed to be minimally invasive with an emphasis on comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Q3: Is Orthodontics just for kids?
A: No! Orthodontics is available to individuals of all ages who wish to straighten their teeth and improve their dental health. Orthodontic treatment for adults is just as effective as it is for children and teens. Orthodontists will assess an individual’s needs and recommend the most appropriate Orthodontic treatment for them.
