Orthodontics benefits more than just children and teens. Did you know that 1 in every 5 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment is an adult?
Just as children and adolescents turn to orthodontic treatment to correct their smiles, adults do the same. Often times adults with orthodontic problems that were not addressed as children seek to correct them later in life. In some cases, adults who received orthodontic care as a child may require further treatment due to regression or advances in technology.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
There are many benefits to orthodontic treatment for adults. These include:
- Adjusting the teeth to achieve a more beautiful smile
- Improved relapse after previous orthodontic treatment due to lack of long term retainer wear
- Enhance the ability to brush and floss, especially for crowded or overlapping lower front teeth
- Create a better or more comfortable bite and ability to chew
- Address missing teeth
- Reduced spaces between the teeth
- Lessen excessive wear on the teeth due to grinding or poor bite
- Jaw surgery to correct discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws.
Appearance of Braces
Many adults who need braces often avoid them due to their less than desirable appearance. Invisalign® (The invisible alternative to braces) has quickly become the most accepted solution. These clear removable aligners are developed with advanced 3D imaging to align the teeth without being noticed. Clear ceramic brackets (instead of metal) are also an option for those with severe oral problems.
Soreness | Discomfort
Orthodontic treatment is uncomfortable. No matter the age, patients undergoing orthodontic treatment report the same level of soreness. Adults, however, are more likely to express their discomfort than children.
In the first 12-24 hours after an orthodontic adjustment, it is common for patients to experience discomfort. Soreness typically disappears within 3 to 5 days.
Advances in technology have made modern appliances smaller, more comfortable to wear and put less pressure on the teeth to cause discomfort – all while moving the teeth quickly and efficiently. Modern appliances also decrease the time required between adjustments to every 8 – 10 weeks. Treatment is typically completed within 15-18 months.
Cost
Adult orthodontic treatment is billed in the same way as child or adolescent treatment. Cost differs with each patient and is based on the course of treatment recommended by Dr. Mark Hablinski and Dr. Amir Davoody. Treatment cost is based on the urgency of the problem, appliances used, level of difficulty and the time-frame necessary for correction.
Dr. Mark Hablinski and Dr. Amir Davoody has treated individuals of all ages ranging from as young as 10 to patients in their 70’s. No matter your age, it is never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.