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Adult Orthodontics: It’s Never Too Late to Straighten Your Smile

Posted by Dr. Julie Boudreault On 4-06-2024

It’s a common misconception that orthodontics are only for children and teenagers. Although it’s true that modern dental offices prefer to correct misaligned tooth and bite issues at a young age, orthodontic treatment is available to anyone wanting to straighten their smile. Orthodontics helps patients of all ages, including adults.

Why should you straighten your smile as an adult?

The truth is that adults also benefit from orthodontic treatments—not just children and teens! After all, kids aren’t the only ones affected by tooth misalignment and bite issues. If you had malocclusion (crowded or misaligned teeth) as a child, but never received treatment, you will still have malocclusion as an adult. Your teeth won’t move into the proper position on their own; they need a little help from your dentist. Alternatively, teeth can shift out of alignment over time or after a traumatic mouth injury, leading to a crooked smile in adulthood. Crooked, crowded, and protruding teeth can make you feel so self-conscious that you hesitate to smile and laugh. Therefore, a straighter and more symmetrical smile might be the confidence boost you need. You’ll live a happier life as a result, free from any anxieties surrounding the appearance of your teeth. However, straightening your smile is beneficial for more than just your confidence; it’s also important for your oral health. Misaligned teeth are often harder to keep clean since they have more hard-to-reach areas. This can lead to problems like tartar buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Once orthodontic treatment guides your teeth into the proper positions, they’re easier to brush and floss effectively. Correcting tooth misalignment and bite issues also improves the function of your mouth. Severe bite issues (like an overbite, underbite, or open bite) often make eating, talking, and breathing difficult. You may also experience severe jaw pain and wear and tear on your teeth.

What are the benefits of orthodontics for adults?

A straighter, more attractive smile.
Increased self-confidence.
Improved oral health.
Teeth that are easier to clean.
Less risk of cavities and gum disease.
Easier to chew and speak.
Alleviate jaw pain.

What types of orthodontic treatments are available for adults?

Invisalign

Invisalign is the most popular orthodontic treatment for adults because they are extremely discreet. Since Invisalign aligners are made from a clear plastic, they’re practically undetectable when worn. Additionally, each aligner is custom-made for your mouth, making it more comfortable to wear than traditional braces. The trays are also removable, although you need to wear them for at least 20 hours per day. Invisalign is best for correcting gapped teeth, crowded teeth, and mild bite problems.

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces remain a common and highly effective orthodontic treatment method. If you have severe malocclusion, then your dentist will likely recommend metal braces. They’re the most effective method of correcting extreme tooth misalignment.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are an alternative to traditional metal braces. They’re made from a clear or tooth-coloured ceramic. This makes them less visible than metal braces and more comfortable to wear.

When is the best time for adults to start treatment?

It’s never too late to start orthodontic treatment. You can improve the look and function of your smile at any point in your life. To begin, contact Milltown Dental to schedule your Invisalign consultation. Dr. Boudreault will assess your teeth to determine if Invisalign aligners are right for you.

How long do orthodontic treatments take?

The length of your orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of your case. If your teeth are extremely misaligned, or you have a significant bite issue, then your treatment will take longer. Your dentist will assess your unique situation to determine the approximate duration of your treatment, as well as which orthodontic method is best for you. In most cases, straightening your teeth with Invisalign is faster than doing so with traditional metal braces. Invisalign treatments take a maximum of 12–18 months; however, most patients complete their treatment in well under a year. Minor misalignment can be corrected in as little as three months. Metal braces, on the other hand, typically take 12 to 24 months to straighten your teeth.

What should adults expect during the orthodontic process?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment as an adult, the first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist or orthodontist. They’ll examine your teeth and jaw to determine the severity of your malocclusion, which orthodontic method would be most effective, and the approximate duration of your treatment. Then, they devise a customized treatment plan based on your individual needs and preferences. All orthodontic treatments work by applying subtle amounts of pressure to gently move teeth into the desired positions. With traditional metal braces, the pressure comes from the wires, which are attached to your teeth via brackets. Invisalign, conversely, uses a series of clear aligners that gradually change shape to guide misaligned teeth. Metal braces require more frequent dental visits than Invisalign. This is because the wires need to be adjusted by your dentist every four weeks. With Invisalign, you only have to visit your orthodontist every six weeks to monitor your progress and pick up your next set of aligners. These appointments are also an opportunity for your orthodontist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, you need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new, corrected positions.

Which orthodontic treatment is right for you?

Your orthodontist at Milltown Dental can help determine which treatment is right for you. That being said, many of our adult patients prefer Invisalign. During your consultation, Dr. Julie Boudreault will assess your teeth to see if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign treatment.

Choose Milltown Dental for Your Orthodontic Treatment

Dr. Julie Boudreault at Milltown Dental specializes in orthodontic treatment using Invisalign. So, if you’re ready to have a straighter, more symmetrical smile, then contact Milltown Dental today to set up a consultation. After orthodontic treatment at our clinic, you’ll be smiling with more confidence than ever before. To learn more about orthodontic treatment in Milton, call Milltown Dental at (833) 318-3281 or contact us here.

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