One of the most common (and inaccurate) beliefs about orthodontic treatment is that it’s meant exclusively for kids and teenagers. Can adults still benefit from orthodontic treatment? Absolutely—in fact, a quarter of our patients at Innovative Orthodontics happen to be adults!
The Right Approach For You
Once Dr. Waters or Dr. Clayton decides orthodontic treatment is a smart next step for you to take, they’ll work with you to choose an ideal appliance based on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
- Traditional Metal Braces: Stainless steel braces are smaller and more comfortable now than they’ve ever been, offering a reliable solution for even the most advanced alignment issues.
- Ceramic Braces: Adult patients enjoy this choice for their tooth-colored brackets and solid functionality.
- Invisalign: Perfect for mild to moderate cases, clear aligners like Invisalign allow you to straighten your teeth without the visibility of braces. They’re removable, so you can eat, brush, and floss with ease.
Why It Works So Well
- Shorter Treatment Times: Adults tend to be more diligent about wearing clear aligners on time or following detailed care instructions for braces, which can help speed up the overall process compared to a child or teen’s treatment.
- Better Compliance: Adults often fully understand the importance of adhering to our guidelines, leading to more predictable and seamless results.
- Enhanced Oral Hygiene: Consistent brushing and flossing helps maintain oral health throughout the treatment process. Kids can struggle with this aspect of compliance, maybe more than any other.
- Clear Communication with Providers: Adults are usually much more communicative of their concerns, allowing us to make adjustments for optimal outcomes.
- Focus on Long-Term Benefits: Adults approach treatment considering the health, aesthetic, and functional advantages, driving their commitment to achieving a smile transformation.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
Sometimes, seeking treatment later in life has some special advantages.
Improved Oral Health
- Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Misaligned teeth are much harder to clean, increasing symptoms like plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
- Avoid Irregular Wear: Straight teeth reduce uneven wear on enamel, preserving your teeth for the long run.
- Reduce TMJ/TMD Pain: Correcting your bite can alleviate jaw pain and discomfort, which can be chronic for some patients. This provides a welcome relief.
Enhanced Functionality
- Chewing Efficiency: Proper alignment ensures that your teeth function as they should, making eating natural and comfortable.
- Better Speech: Addressing gaps or overcrowding can combat speech impediments and issues with pronunciation.
- Improved Digestion: Properly aligned teeth allow for better chewing, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption.
Boosted Confidence
- Professional Advantage: A confident smile can positively impact your career by improving interactions.
- Social Benefits: Feeling good about your smile encourages more social interaction and self-expression.
- Improved Mental Health: Achieving a smile you’re proud of can reduce self-consciousness and enhance overall well-being.
Maintaining Results
Once you’ve “crossed the finish line” of active treatment, so to speak, a new challenge begins: Keeping your restored smile in place. It’s possible for teeth to shift back or new issues to arise if you don’t follow certain maintenance practices.
- Watch for Shifts: Be vigilant about noticing any changes in your alignment or bite. If you detect movement, contact your orthodontist promptly to address the issue before it progresses.
- Wear Your Retainer: Retainers are the primary means of keeping your teeth in their new positions. Follow our instructions about when and how long to wear them. For many adults, wearing a retainer nightly prevents unwanted shifts.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Using a water flosser or interdental brushes can make cleaning around retainers or fixed wires easier.
- Schedule Regular Check-Ups: Routine dental visits will help catch any issues early, such as minor tooth movement or gum problems. Your dentist can also ensure your retainer is still fitting correctly.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Avoid excessive sugar and acidic foods that can weaken enamel. A balanced diet supports overall oral health and helps preserve your orthodontic investment.
- Protect Your Teeth: If you grind your teeth at night, consider a professional-grade night guard to prevent damage. For those who play sports, wearing a mouthguard should be required to safeguard your smile.
A Healthy Commitment
Having braces or clear aligners comes with its fair share of responsibilities—but every day, we see proof that the work is worthwhile for the end results. Whether you’re in Savannah, Rincon, or Pooler, we want to tell you that we always welcome new patients. To get started, come and see the Innovative Orthodontics team for a free consultation.