Adults seek orthodontic treatment for many of the same reasons as children. Some adults had orthodontic problems as children but were unable to address them until now. Others who had treatment at a younger age may need further treatment as adults due to relapse or limitations in the initial treatment.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment in many ways, including:
- Align the teeth to create a more aesthetic and beautiful smile
- Correct relapse after previous orthodontic treatment due to lack of long term retainer wear
- Improve the ability to brush and floss, especially for crowded or overlapping lower front teeth
- Create a better or more comfortable bite and the ability to chew
- Address missing teeth
- Close spaces between the teeth
- Reduce excessive wear on the teeth due to grinding or poor bite
- Jaw surgery to correct discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws
Appearance of Braces
Many adults are concerned with the appearance of braces. Often, Invisalign® (the invisible alternative to traditional braces) can be used to treat adults. This technology involves clear removable aligners fabricated through advanced 3D imaging to align the teeth. If Invisalign® is not part of your orthodontists’ recommendations for the best option for your treatment plan, we have alternative aesthetic options, including clear ceramic braces and lingual braces.
Soreness | Discomfort
Yulee Orthodontic treatment is no more uncomfortable for adults than for children. Adults undergoing orthodontic treatment report the same level of soreness as children.
Typically, the teeth are most tender 24-72 hours after an orthodontic adjustment, and discomfort will dissipate within 3 to 5 days. Modern appliances are smaller and more comfortable to wear. Modern techniques with new titanium technology put less pressure on the teeth while moving the teeth more rapidly and efficiently. These advances also decrease the time required between adjustments to every 6 – 10 weeks.
Cost
The fee for adult orthodontic treatment varies in the same way as a treatment for a child or adolescent would. Our team bases that decision on the severity of the problem, the complexity of the correction, the appliances used, and the expected length of time to correct a problem.
FAQ
What is adult orthodontics?
Adult orthodontics is a dentistry specialty that addresses the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of mal-positioned teeth and jaws and misaligned bite patterns in adults.
How is adult orthodontics different from children’s orthodontics?
One of the key differences between adult orthodontic treatment and child braces is the amount of time it takes to shift teeth. Adults have fully developed teeth and jaws, so their bones are harder, and the tissue around the teeth has already settled.
How much would adult orthodontics cost?
Adult orthodontic treatment costs depend on each patient’s dental needs and the type of orthodontic device chosen by the patient and specialists.
Are there alternatives to adult orthodontics?
An alternative to adult orthodontics is Invisalign. Invisalign is one of the most popular products on the market for adults looking to straighten their teeth.
How often will I need to see the adult orthodontist?
It depends on the type of treatment, but in general, with adult orthodontics, you’re looking at an office visit every 4-8 weeks for the duration of your treatment.
How long will adults need braces?
Depending on various factors such as the severity of the issues like a crossbite, your age, and teeth health, your treatment may take longer or not. Generally speaking, orthodontic treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months.