Adults

 You’re never too old for braces! Who says that you’re not allowed to have nicely aligned teeth and a perfect smile? Definitely not us. At IKC Orthodontics, we believe that braces can be suitable for any individual who walks through our doors and we have many different options to choose from!

We have many adult patients at our practice, so you won’t feel out of place! We also have quite a few parent/child teams that are experiencing orthodontic treatment together!

Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require different levels of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatments, and your needs are met with understanding and respect from us and in collaboration with your general dentist and other dental specialists as needed.

Although it is beneficial in most cases, to see patients at a young age (at least 7 years old), that doesn’t mean to say that orthodontic treatment cannot be done successfully on adult patients. Since the jaws and facial growth have been completed, orthodontic treatment is modified to suit these challenges, however orthodontics remains a viable way to create a beautiful, balanced smile. As with all our patients, we begin our treatment plans by determining if your jaw joints are functioning properly. From there, we have many options available to choose from.

 

Common reasons why adults may choose to have braces:

• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly
• Teeth are crowded or spaced apart, possibly causing tooth decay or gum disease
• Abnormal jaw pain, or pressure caused by crooked teeth or improper jaw joint positions
• Desire for a healthier mouth and a more confident smile

 

The difference between adult orthodontics and orthodontics for children and teens:

The main difference to remember when treating adults or children/teens, is that in younger patients, the jaw and facial bones are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which increases the possibility of orthognathic surgery to align the jaw bones. Other differences include:

• Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease since it is easier to keep the teeth clean
• Worn or missing teeth — With time, teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with a combination of restorative and orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease
• Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen or insufficient retainer wear— Many adults received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but failed to complete their treatment or to maintain the retention phase. Many adults have chosen to complete or redo their orthodontic treatment as an adult to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted

 

Why should you consider orthodontic treatment?

• 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 that cost you more in the end

 
To learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment. We understand you have a busy schedule, and we will work with you to make sure each office visit is as convenient as possible.

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