Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and they want to feel better about their appearance. Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and now you can too.
Common reasons why adults are considering orthodontic treatment:
- A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly
- Teeth are crowded or spaced apart, possibly leading to tooth decay or gum disease
- Abnormal jaw pain or pressure that is caused by crooked teeth
- The desire for a healthier mouth and a more confident smile
Treatment Options for Adults
For many adults, the thought of having metal braces is enough to discourage them from receiving treatment. However, today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs. Types of braces include:
- Clear braces
- Ceramic braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Lingual (behind the tooth) braces
- Invisible braces
- Traditional metal braces
The difference between adult orthodontics and orthodontics for children and teens:
The main difference between treating adults and children or teens is that the jawbones of younger patients are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which may make orthognathic surgery possible to align the jawbones. Other differences include:
- Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease.
- Worn or missing teeth — Over time teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.
- Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen — Many adults received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but never completed their treatment. As an adult, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.
Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.
Why should you consider orthodontic treatment?
- Straight teeth are healthy teeth — Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to keep clean with flossing and brushing, and may help prevent other health problems.
- A beautiful, straight smile builds confidence — Orthodontic treatment can help boost your self-confidence, giving you a better quality of life and the freedom to smile without holding back!
- Mouths left untreated can get worse — Not receiving orthodontic treatment when it's needed can create long-term health issues costing you more in the end.
To learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment. We understand that you have a busy schedule, and we will work with you to make sure each office visit is as convenient as possible.
Southbury, Waterbury, & Surrounding Areas
Clear aligners are an effective alternative to traditional braces because they use a system of clear, removable trays used to straighten teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit over your teeth and is designed to gradually move teeth into their proper position. Your orthodontist may recommend different types of clear aligners based on your specific bite, amount of crowding, or complexity of your overall orthodontic treatment.
Using clear aligners for orthodontic treatment is not for everyone. Your orthodontist designs and coordinates your tooth movement and bite correction and then selects which clear aligner company is best suited for these movements to manufacture the aligners. The best way to find out if clear aligners are the right option for you, and which type of aligners are best for you, is to schedule a consultation with your orthodontist.
Clear Aligners We Offer
Invisalign
With Invisalign aligners, you can straighten your teeth and experience the benefits of a great smile without having to deal with a mouth full of metal! Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear, removable, comfortable aligners that straighten teeth in less time than traditional braces.
Invisalign was one of the first companies to manufacture clear aligners. Dr. Aronson and Dr. Friedman have created thousands of beautiful smiles using Invisalign clear aligners.
Spark
Spark clear aligners are an effective alternative to traditional braces that use a system of clear, removable trays to straighten teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit over your teeth and is designed to gradually move teeth into their proper position. Spark orthodontic clear aligners are manufactured by Ormco, an orthodontic specialty company with over 60 years of producing world-class orthodontic specialist products and materials.
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners are used as an alternative to traditional braces and are designed to help guide teeth into the proper position. Just like braces, clear aligners use gradual force to control tooth movement, but without any metal wires or brackets. The aligners are made with a strong plastic material that has been fabricated to fit your mouth. As treatment progresses you switch aligners. Each aligner is a little different, so your teeth move a little more with every change.
Aligners are worn for at least 20 hours each day, and you'll receive a new aligner every two weeks. The length of your treatment depends on the severity of your case, and treatment can take anywhere from six months to two years.
How do clear aligners take to straighten my teeth?
Tooth movement is independent of the aligner or braces that is pressing on them. Your body responds to the force of the aligners or braces and repositions the tooth slowly every day to a new position. Aligner treatment can be faster than braces for certain bites and it can be slower for others. Overall treatment with aligners takes around the same amount of time as braces; about 4 months up to 2 years.
How do I clean my clear aligners?
There are over-the-counter products that can be used to clean your aligners. However, orderless and colorless dish soap and a dedicated toothbrush is a gentle and safe way to clean your aligners. Just use a toothbrush and a little of the dish soap with warm water once or twice a day.
How much do clear aligners cost?
Generally, orthodontic clear aligners will cost the same as traditional braces. Sometimes it can even be less! It all depends on the type of bite or crowding/spacing your teeth have. The financial investment for your treatment is based on your unique bite, not on the methodology to treat it.
Which clear aligner is best for me?
There are benefits to each of the aligner materials. For example, Spark is ideal for those who are looking for a more esthetic option as the plastic used is more clear and less visible on your teeth.
Invisalign may be a better option for young adults that need mandibular advancement as your orthodontist can program a mandibular advancement feature into your aligners. Your orthodontist designs and programs your treatment plan and then will work with you to select the right material (Invisalign or Spark plastic) for your tooth movement.
Advantages of orthodontic treatment with clear aligners:
Clear aligners are a great alternative for patients who want a straighter smile but do not want to wear metal braces, or for patients who have had treatment in the past and want to make minor corrections to their smile. There are several advantages to orthodontic treatment with clear aligners.
- Clear aligners are easier to keep clean, making it easier to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
- Clear aligners are comfortable and less likely to irritate your gums and cheeks.
- Clear aligners prevent wear on the teeth from tooth grinding.
- Clear aligners are removable, so it's easier for you to brush and floss after meals.
If you're interested in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, schedule an appointment and talk to your orthodontist about whether this is the right treatment option for you. Scheduling a free consultation is your first step toward achieving the beautiful smile you've always wanted.
