ADULT ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

You Are Never Too Old For A Straighter, Healthier Smile

Orthodontic treatment is for adults just as much as it is for adolescents! Adult patients can benefit from a straight smile that looks natural and attractive through orthodontics. Another advantage of treatment is that it helps your smile be healthier and last longer.

Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for adolescents. One difference is that treatment might take slightly longer to shift, but they will still certainly shift. Modern orthodontic treatment is more advanced than ever, making your time in treatment comfortable, and in some cases, unnoticeable to others. Virginia Orthodontic Partners has the options and the expertise to help you have the smile you’ve always wanted.

How Is Adult Orthodontic Treatment Different?

Healthy teeth are always able to be moved, no matter your age! However, orthodontic treatment for adults is different in two important aspects. As an adult, your jawbones are no longer growing, so changes in actual jaw structure can’t be accomplished with orthodontic appliances in the way they can with a growing child. Also, adults may have dental issues or restorations that must be managed to complete successful orthodontic treatment. In certain cases, our orthodontics make refer adult patients to dental specialists such as oral surgeons, periodontists and endodontists.

Concerns Unique To Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Dr. Lee and adult patient laughing together

Bone loss and gum recession are more common in adults than children due to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Since orthodontic treatment causes gentle forces to be applied to your teeth to move the teeth, healthy bones and gums are needed. Any gum disease must be treated and brought under control before orthodontic treatment begins. The good news is that having straighter teeth can reduce the risk for periodontal disease later.

As you get older, the way your teeth fit together can change. This can be due to fillings, missing teeth, misshapen or worn teeth, crowns or other dental restorations.

The use of some medications may slow the movement of your teeth during orthodontic treatment.

Habits like smoking, clenching or grinding teeth, or tongue thrust, can affect treatment outcomes. We’re happy to work with your dentist to coordinate care and comprehensively treat problems like these.

Why Would I Need Adult Orthodontic Treatment?

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and it often has an impact on your relationships with others and yourself. Many people believe their crooked smile is holding them back from living their best life. Adults may pursue orthodontic treatment for the following reasons.

  • Unhappy with their smile

  • Had treatment but didn’t wear their retainer

  • Preparing for cosmetic dental work or replacing missing teeth and require orthodontics first

  • Uneven bite where teeth do not fit together correctly

  • Crowding or spacing, which can contribute to tooth decay or gum disease

  • Chronic jaw pain or unbalanced forces causing TMJ issues

  • The desire for optimal oral health and confidence

  • To alleviate health concerns associated with their teeth. (headaches and earaches, gastrointestinal problems)

  • Since people live longer than ever before, they need teeth that will last longer

Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Benefits Of Adult Orthodontic Treatment

There are many ways adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment, including:

  • Creating a more beautiful smile by ensuring teeth are aligned properly, and any spaces are closed

  • Correcting relapse that occurred by not wearing a retainer after previous orthodontic treatment

  • Promoting oral health by making it easier to clean the teeth with straight teeth

  • Creating a stable bite for better biting and chewing

  • Aligned teeth reduce excessive wear due to a bad bite

  • Address missing teeth and close spaces between the teeth

Get Started Today

REQUEST A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION