Adult Orthodontics![]() Our team at Dr. Jeffrey Kashner Orthodontics believes that every patient should have a smile that they can be proud of. We will work with you to determine the orthodontic treatment that is the best for your circumstances. Misaligned teeth can be a serious issue and we want to make sure that you have the healthiest smile possible. If you are considering adult orthodontic treatment options, then this article is the best choice for you to identify if it is the right treatment for you. What Are Adult Orthodontics?Adult orthodontics is the practice of straightening or realigning teeth in adult patients. While many people think that only adolescents receive orthodontic treatments, this is an antiquated belief. Dr. Sunil Wadhwa, the orthodontic director at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, says that at least 50% of her patients are adults compared to just 1% of patients in the '90s. So, although it may have been unusual to see an adult with braces 30 years ago, it is much more common in today's age. The treatment for adult orthodontics follows the same principle as orthodontics in children and adolescents. It is the application of pressure on teeth over a period of time to slowly move them into the proper place. Adults tend to have denser and more secure bones than younger patients, so the process can take longer to complete but the results are virtually the same. What Adult Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?The treatment method that most people think about when it comes to braces is the classic metal brace that attaches to brackets. The brackets are securely glued to each affected tooth, and a metal arch is connected to each bracket to apply pressure over time. This treatment method is more conspicuous to other people, so many adults may opt for other options. A less noticeable orthodontic treatment is getting clear or invisible braces. Clear braces are similar to metal braces but use different materials that are harder to notice. Invisible braces are removable trays that cover the entire top or bottom arch of teeth. The tray is customized to fit over all the teeth in an arch and works the same way that traditional braces do by applying pressure over time. In addition to being harder to notice, another advantage of invisible braces is that they are removable. So, you can take them out when eating, drinking, or cleaning your teeth. As your teeth are slowly adjusted, you will require a new set of invisible braces that apply more pressure as the placement of the teeth change. ConclusionIf you want straighter teeth but think that you are too old, then you should reconsider this position as adults all over the world are getting braces to correct the position of their teeth. It is never too late to receive treatment, and at Dr. Jeffrey Kashner Orthodontics we will create a customized dental plan for each patient. Call us at 253-630-3331, and set up an appointment today so you can get the smile that you deserve. |