Orthodontics isn’t just for pre-teens and teenagers; a growing number of adults are opting to correct malocclusions and teeth misalignments with orthodontic treatment. Currently, about one-third of all orthodontic patients are adults, proving it’s never too late to pursue a straighter smile. Early treatment is beneficial for achieving ideal alignment during youth, but orthodontic adjustments can be effectively made at any age.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment:

• Reduced Tooth Decay: Misalignment creates hard-to-clean areas where oral bacteria thrive, increasing the risk of decay.
• Reduced Wear and Tear: Malocclusion can lead to uneven force distribution while chewing, causing excessive wear on teeth and dental enamel.
• Relief of Jaw Pain: A well-aligned bite promotes even pressure distribution across teeth, alleviating TMJ dysfunction symptoms like clicking, popping, and discomfort.

Common Misalignments Treated with Braces:

• Overbite: The upper jaw protrudes beyond the lower jaw, potentially giving a sunken appearance to the chin.
• Underbite: The lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw, possibly resulting from growth irregularities, making the chin appear prominent.
• Overcrowding: Insufficient space for adult teeth to erupt properly, sometimes necessitating tooth extraction for alignment.

Types of Braces:

Orthodontic braces are categorized into fixed and removable types. After a thorough examination, including x-rays and bite impressions, your orthodontist will recommend the best treatment option.

• Fixed Dental Braces: These braces, which consist of brackets and an archwire, are adjusted periodically to guide teeth into alignment. The brackets can be metal, ceramic, or clear.
• Lingual Braces: Positioned behind the teeth, lingual braces are effective yet can occasionally cause speech issues or tongue discomfort.
• Invisalign®: A popular choice among adults, this system uses a series of clear, removable aligners to adjust teeth placement gradually.
• Retainers: Used post-treatment to prevent teeth from reverting to their original position, ensuring long-term results.

Orthodontic treatment can significantly improve oral health and aesthetics, regardless of age. For further inquiries about braces, feel free to reach out to our office.