Adult Braces and Orthodontics: Something to Smile About

People tend to associate orthodontics with children and adolescence; however, over 30 percent of our orthodontic patients are adults. Our oldest patient is currently in her 80s! Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically enhance your appearance and self-esteem, while also improving the health of your teeth and gums. For adult patients with damaged or missing teeth, orthodontics can prepare your smile for cosmetic and restorative dentistry (such as veneers and implants). Alternatively, orthodontics can move teeth to obviate the need for further restorative dental care.

The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, and shorten treatment time. Adult patients may choose from several orthodontic options, including invisible lingual braces (iBraces), traditional metal braces, translucent braces, or Invisalign.

Drs. Miller and Eidenmuller are both certified in an exciting new procedure called Wilckodontics (Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics – AOO) which decreases treatment time to only 6 to 9 months. Please visit our Wilckodontics (AOO) section to read more about this wonderful option. Otherwise, with conventional treatment, most adult patients usually wear braces from 18 to 24 months, depending on specific treatment needs.

Drs. Miller and Eidenmuller specialize in adult orthodontic and interdisciplinary care.

Why Do Adults Wear Orthodontic Braces?

Braces offer a good choice for improving your smile and oral health. Some adults have problem teeth because their parents could not afford getting braces when they were young. Or perhaps the problem with their teeth is more recent. Now, options are available for correcting them and adult braces provide many advantages.

Crooked teeth or teeth that overlap are harder to clean around. As a result, this serves as hiding places for bacteria that cause bad breath, gum disease and tooth decay. Protruding teeth or gaps between teeth interfere with your smile and create an uneven bite, but getting braces or orthodontic appliances can straighten crooked teeth and move teeth into proper position. An improper bite can lead to TMD (jaw pain and headaches).

Adults now enjoy the results of adult orthodontics, which so beautifully provide a healthier-looking smile. Today's braces are much less noticeable than those you may remember as a child. Taking care of your teeth sends the message that you are taking care of yourself, reflecting self-respect and confidence.

What Are My Orthodontics Choices?

The orthodontic appliances of today provide greater comfort and style than in the past. Another feature of modern adult braces is that they work more quickly than the traditional style braces, which means a shorter time to wear them and fewer trips to the orthodontist.

Older dental braces used bands that wrapped around teeth. While these are still available, other braces offer new options. One type features brackets made of metal or plastic, bonded to the teeth and used in conjunction with thin, gentle wires.

Another type of braces stay discreetly hidden from view, using brackets attached to the back of the teeth. Both types require wires to move the teeth into their correct positions. Your dentist or orthodontist will help you decide which style of braces is right for you.