Beautiful Smiles at Every Age
There’s no age limit on confidence! While the majority of patients are children and teens, more and more adults are choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Not only do adults want to have beautiful smiles, but they also know their mouths will be healthier when they do.
Reasons for Adult Treatment
- An overbite or underbite that causes teeth to fit together incorrectly
- Crowding or excessive spacing can lead to tooth decay or gum & bone disease
- Jaw pain that accompanies crooked and overlapping teeth
- Esthetic concerns
- Pre-Prosthetic Orthodontics — if you are working with your dentist and planning some restorative or prosthetic work, they may recommend orthodontic treatment to get you ready for restorative treatment as part of the plan
Treatment Options for Adults
Gone are the days when there was only one option for patients who needed braces. Adults who choose to invest in their smiles have many different choices, even for busy, on-the-go travelers.
With accelerated, advanced treatment options, orthodontic care is great for anyone. If you’re wanting the self-confidence that comes along with having straight teeth, take a look at our treatment options:
- Traditional metal braces
- Tooth-colored ceramic braces
- Invisalign clear aligners
The Difference In Adult Orthodontics
Jawbones: While children’s jawbones are still growing, adults’ bones are fully developed. As a result, adults may have to wear orthodontic appliances longer, or even require more extensive treatment. In rare situations, orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be necessary to align the jaws as well as the teeth.
Gum and bone health: Adults may suffer from various stages of periodontal (gum and bone) disease. Even though tooth alignment can be changed at any age, it is important to make sure your gums and bone structure are healthy. That’s why a proper orthodontic examination is needed before any treatment is started.
Learn More About Adult Orthodontics
Adults frequently tell us how comfortable they feel in our Sycamore office.
Here at Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we understand just how challenging it can be to make the decision to undergo orthodontic treatment.
We also love our adult patients because they usually follow instructions well!
Orthodontic work is a partnership between the orthodontist and the patient, and we know the adults who see us are committed to their oral health.