Think orthodontics is just for kids or teens? Think again! Today, 1 in 5 orthodontic patients are adults, proving you’re never too old to improve your smile.
Why Do Adults Choose Orthodontics?
Adults pursue orthodontic treatment for various reasons, similar to younger patients. Some didn’t have the opportunity to address orthodontic issues in their youth, while others might seek enhancements due to changes since their initial treatment.
How Adults Benefit from Orthodontics:
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about a pretty smile; it offers significant health and functional benefits:
- Beautify your smile and boost your confidence.
- Address shifts in teeth alignment since previous treatments, often due to not wearing retainers as advised.
- Enhance oral hygiene for crowded or overlapping teeth, making cleaning easier.
- Improve biting and chewing functions, ensuring a comfortable bite.
- Fill gaps where teeth are missing or space out crowded teeth.
- Reduce wear on teeth from grinding or an improper bite.
- Even consider jaw surgery for substantial upper and lower jaw misalignments.
Concerned About Braces Visibility?
Many adults worry about how braces might look. Thankfully, options like Invisalign® provide a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth using clear, removable aligners tailored with advanced 3D imaging. For more complex issues, discreet, clear ceramic brackets are an alternative to traditional metal ones.
What About Discomfort?
Fear not—adults typically experience similar comfort levels to kids during orthodontic adjustments. Any soreness usually peaks within the first day and eases off within a few days. Thanks to smaller, more advanced appliances and innovative techniques like titanium wires, treatments are quicker and more comfortable, with fewer office visits required.
Cost Considerations
Just like with younger patients, the cost for adults depends on the specific orthodontic needs, including the problem’s complexity, chosen appliances, and treatment duration.
Remember, Dr. Nader Ehsani and Dr. Sherry Sabet have successfully treated patients across a wide age spectrum, from their 50’s to their 70’s. So, it’s truly never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always desired!
