Aligned teeth aren’t just for kids
Aligned teeth aren't just for kids. Whether this is your first time with ortho or you've had treatment before, we can help you transform your adult smile efficiently and comfortably. Our 3D scanner can show you an image your future smile in minutes. Are you worried about braces? Invisalign clear aligners make your treatment more comfortable and give you the freedom to live life the way you want. They are a popular option among our adult patients and we offer them at no additional charge.
What makes adult treatment different
Unlike kids and teens, adults are no longer growing, and that will likely change how we approach your treatment. At NDO, we’re equally experienced treating adults as we are with kids, and we will coordinate closely with your entire care team to ensure that your treatment is a success.
Some of the factors that can make adult treatment different:
No jaw growth
Jaw problems can usually be managed well in a growing child with an orthopedic, growth-modifying appliance. However, the same problem for an adult may require jaw surgery.
Gum or bone loss
Adults may have loss of the gum and bone supporting their teeth. Special treatment by your periodontist may be necessary before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. Bone loss can also limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is advisable.
Worn, damaged or missing teeth
These factors can make orthodontic treatment more difficult. In order for these teeth to look and function well after orthodontia, we may need to carefully coordinate with your dentist.
Some questions our adult patients often have:
Can orthodontic treatment do for me what it does for children?
Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Orthodontic forces move the teeth in the same way for both a 75-year-old adult and a 12-year-old child. Complicating factors, such as lack of jaw growth, may create special treatment planning needs for an adult.
One in five orthodontic patients is an adult. The AAO estimates that more than 25% of all ortho patients in North America are adults; that translates to nearly 1,500,000 adults in the United States and Canada that are seeking treatment from an orthodontist. To learn about correction of a specific problem, please consult your family dentist or contact us about scheduling a complimentary examination.
My family dentist said I need to have some missing teeth replaced, but I need orthodontic treatment first – why?
Your dentist is probably recommending orthodontics so that he or she might treat you in the best manner possible to bring you to optimal dental health. Many complicated tooth restorations, such as crowns, bridges and implants, can be best accomplished when the remaining teeth are properly aligned and the bite is correct.
When permanent teeth are lost, it is common for the remaining teeth to drift, tip or shift. This movement can create a poor bite and uneven spacing that cannot be restored properly unless the missing teeth are replaced. Tipped teeth usually need to be straightened so they can stand up to normal biting pressures in the future.
My teeth have been crooked for more than 50 years – why should I have orthodontic treatment now?
Orthodontic treatment can restore good function. Teeth that work better usually look better, too. And a healthy, beautiful smile can improve self-esteem, no matter the age.
