ADULT ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

More and more adults are seeking treatment for oral difficulties they’ve been experiencing since childhood…

WHY ADULTS NEED ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT AS WELL?

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. Although childhood is the ideal time to make changes in the positioning of the teeth, more adults are opting for orthodontic treatment and coming away with excellent results. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. They may never have received orthodontic braces as a child or teen, or have received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but never completed their treatment. As an adult, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.

Straight teeth are healthy teeth — Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to keep clean with flossing and brushing, and may help prevent other health problems.

A beautiful, straight smile builds confidence — Orthodontic treatment can help boost your self-confidence, giving you a better quality of life and the freedom to smile without holding back!

Mouths left untreated can get worse — Not receiving orthodontic treatment when it’s needed can create long-term health issues costing you more in the end.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ADULT ORTHODONTICS AND ORTHODONTICS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS:

Age-Related Considerations

Adult braces patients often have conditions younger patients don’t often suffer from, such as insufficient bone between the roots for adequate blood supply, mild gingivitis infections and marginal bone loss. The bones are also harder and no longer growing, and the aging of tissue often causes them to take longer to adjust to your teeth’s new positions. The bones of adults have stopped growing, so some structural changes cannot be accomplished without surgery. These are known as biomechanical limitations, however, excellent results can still be achieved by a more involved process in adults.

Gum Or Bone Loss (Periodontal Disease)

Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease. You may also need to see a periodontist as well as your general dentist and orthodontist to ensure that the treatment is not complicated by bone loss resulting from gum disease.

Worn or Missing Teeth

Over time teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.

Our practice in Dublin, Ohio also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us. We also offer clear aligners.