Adult Orthodontic Treatment: It's Never Too Late for a Beautiful Smile
At Bright Healthy Smiles, we believe that a confident, healthy smile is something everyone deserves, no matter their age. If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment but thought it was something for children or teens only, think again! Orthodontics has come a long way, and more adults than ever are choosing to enhance their smiles with braces or clear aligners.
Whether you’re looking to improve the alignment of your teeth, correct bite issues, or simply achieve a more confident smile, adult orthodontic treatment is a fantastic option. Here’s everything you need to know about adult orthodontics and how we can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted.
Why Choose Orthodontic Treatment as an Adult?
There are many reasons adults pursue orthodontic treatment. While some people may have avoided braces as kids, others may have had orthodontic treatment in the past but experienced teeth shifting over time. No matter the reason, adult orthodontics offers a variety of benefits:
- Improved Aesthetics: Many adults are concerned about the appearance of their smile. Orthodontic treatment can help straighten teeth and correct gaps, crowded teeth, and other aesthetic issues.
- Better Function: Properly aligned teeth make chewing and speaking easier.
- Health Benefits: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues. Correcting bite problems can also alleviate unnecessary strain on the teeth and jaw, and can help in reducing the risk of tooth wear and gum recession.
Orthodontic Options for Adults
The good news is that you have plenty of treatment options available. Our team at Bright Healthy Smiles offers a variety of modern solutions tailored to meet your needs and lifestyle:
Metal Braces
Metal braces are still a popular and highly effective choice for adult orthodontic treatment. They are strong, reliable, and can treat even the most complex dental issues. Today’s metal braces are more comfortable and aesthetically appealing than ever, with smaller brackets and improved technology for a faster and more efficient treatment process.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional metal braces but are made from clear or tooth-colored materials, making them a more discreet option. These braces blend in with the natural color of your teeth, offering a more subtle appearance while still providing effective treatment.
Invisalign® (Clear Aligners)
For adults who want to straighten their teeth without the visibility of braces, Invisalign® is a fantastic choice. These clear, removable aligners gradually shift teeth into place without the need for metal or wires. Invisalign® aligners are comfortable, discreet, and allow for easy oral hygiene, as you can remove them to eat and brush your teeth.
Surgical Orthodontic Treatment
When there is a severe discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws in patients who are done growing, surgical orthodontic treatment may be an option. Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is performed by an Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon. The orthodontist will work closely with the surgeon to carefully plan out the orthodontic and surgical treatment to ensure that not only the teeth are perfect, but that the jaw alignment and facial harmony are ideal as well.
What to Expect During Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Here’s what you can expect during your adult orthodontic journey:
- Initial Consultation: During your first visit, we’ll perform a thorough exam, take x-rays, photos, and a 3D scan, and discuss your goals. We’ll create a customized treatment plan based on your needs.
- Treatment Process: Depending on the type of braces or aligners you choose, you’ll need to visit our office periodically for adjustments or check-ups. For Invisalign® patients, we’ll provide you with a series of aligners to wear at home, with regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
- Comfort: While you may experience some discomfort after adjustments or when you first start treatment, modern orthodontics is much more comfortable than in the past. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease any discomfort.
Completion and Retention: After your treatment is complete, we’ll provide you with retainers to ensure that your teeth stay in their new positions. Wearing retainers as instructed is key to maintaining your beautiful new smile for life.
Why Choose Bright Healthy Smiles for Your Orthodontic Care?
At Bright Healthy Smiles, we take pride in providing high-quality orthodontic care for patients of all ages. Our team is dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans that fit your goals, lifestyle, and needs. Whether you’re interested in traditional braces or clear aligners, we’ll guide you through every step of the process, making sure you feel comfortable and informed along the way.
We’re here to help you achieve a beautiful smile that you’ll feel confident about for years to come.
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
If you’re ready to explore adult orthodontic options, we’d love to meet with you. Let’s start your journey toward a healthier, more beautiful smile!