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Specialized Adult Information

Specialized Adult Information

Personalized, Expert Care at Every Age

At IKC Orthodontics in North York, we understand that orthodontic needs don’t stop when you become an adult. In fact, many of our patients seek treatment later in life to address long-standing issues, regain confidence, or enhance their oral health. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Iris Kivity-Chandler, a leading orthodontist and TMD specialist in Toronto, our adult patients receive highly personalized care tailored to the unique needs of a fully matured smile

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Why Orthodontics for Adults Is Different

The primary difference between adult orthodontics and orthodontic care for children and teens lies in jaw and bone development. In younger patients, the jaw and facial bones are still growing, which gives orthodontists more flexibility in guiding development and correcting alignment. In adults, however, the bones have matured and hardened, meaning treatment plans must adapt to an already established facial structure.

This often requires more complex, multi-disciplinary care and in some cases, orthognathic (jaw) surgery to achieve optimal results, especially when addressing issues related to severe bite misalignment or jaw function.
But it’s not just about bone development. Adults face other oral health concerns that impact orthodontic treatment, such as:

Gum Recession and Bone Loss

Adults are far more likely than children to have some degree of periodontal (gum) disease, especially if there’s a history of poor oral hygiene, smoking, or systemic health conditions. Gum recession and bone loss can complicate orthodontic movement, requiring careful treatment planning in collaboration with your dentist or periodontist.
At IKC Orthodontics, we prioritize your periodontal health as much as your alignment. Straighter teeth are not only more attractive—they’re also easier to clean, which in turn reduces the risk of gum disease progression.

Missing or Worn Teeth

Over time, teeth can wear down due to grinding, clenching, or years of use. Missing teeth from previous extractions, injuries, or untreated decay can cause remaining teeth to shift or tilt into the space, creating misalignment, bite imbalances, and increasing your risk of gum problems and jaw pain.
Orthodontics for adults often includes coordinated care with restorative dentists to realign the bite and prepare for dental implants, bridges, or crowns. We focus on function as much as aesthetics—restoring balance to your bite and smile.

Incomplete Orthodontic Treatment in Youth

Many adults begin treatment because they never finished braces as a teen or didn’t wear their retainers long enough. Teeth can shift over time, even after treatment. You may now notice crowding, gaps, or bite issues that weren’t there before.
Whether you’re looking to redo your previous orthodontic treatment or want to finally complete the journey you started in adolescence, our team can help you reach your goals with discreet and effective solutions tailored for adult lifestyles.

The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

Choosing to pursue orthodontics as an adult is a powerful decision—one that can impact your oral health, confidence, and overall wellness. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

Straighter Teeth Are Healthier Teeth

When your teeth are properly aligned, it’s easier to brush and floss effectively. This reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum inflammation, and long-term periodontal issues. In fact, adults who undergo orthodontic treatment often report improvements in their gum health within just a few months of beginning treatment.
At IKC Orthodontics, we prioritize your periodontal health as much as your alignment. Straighter teeth are not only more attractive—they’re also easier to clean, which in turn reduces the risk of gum disease progression.

Improved Jaw Function and Comfort

Orthodontic care isn’t just about straightening teeth—it can also relieve strain on your jaw joints and muscles. If you’re experiencing discomfort while chewing, frequent headaches, or clicking in your jaw, you could be dealing with TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction)—a condition that Dr. Kivity-Chandler specializes in managing.

By addressing misalignment and bite imbalances, adult orthodontic treatment can reduce TMD symptoms and improve your long-term comfort.

Boosted Confidence and Emotional Wellbeing

A straighter smile can dramatically boost your self-esteem, especially in social or professional settings. If you’ve spent years hiding your smile due to crowding, gaps, or bite issues, orthodontic care can give you the freedom to smile with confidence.
Many of our adult patients tell us they wish they had done it sooner—once they see their new smile, they realize it was never too late to invest in themselves.

Discreet Treatment Options for Adults

We know that adult patients often prefer more subtle treatment options—especially if you’re managing work commitments, parenting, or social obligations. That’s why IKC Orthodontics offers a variety of modern, discreet options including:
  • Clear ceramic braces – Similar to traditional metal braces but with tooth-coloured brackets that blend into your smile
  • Invisalign clear aligners – Removable, nearly invisible aligners that straighten your teeth without brackets or wires
  • Lingual braces – Braces that are attached behind your teeth, keeping them completely hidden from view
Every treatment plan is customized to your lifestyle, goals, and oral health needs. We’ll guide you through your options so you can make the best decision for you.

Jaw Surgery and Complex Adult Orthodontic Needs

In certain cases, adult orthodontic treatment may involve collaboration with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to correct significant jaw discrepancies or skeletal misalignment that cannot be resolved with braces or aligners alone. This is often necessary for patients with severe bite issues, facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing, or obstructive sleep apnea related to jaw positioning. Dr. Kivity-Chandler has extensive experience coordinating orthognathic surgery cases, ensuring a seamless, well-managed treatment journey from start to finish.

Orthodontics and TMD – Specialized Care
for Adults

Many adult patients come to us with jaw pain, muscle tension, or chronic headaches. These symptoms are often associated with TMD, a disorder affecting the temporomandibular joint.
Dr. Kivity-Chandler is not only an orthodontist but also a recognized expert in TMD diagnosis and treatment. This means you’ll receive integrated care that looks at the full picture, combining orthodontic alignment with therapeutic strategies to alleviate jaw pain and improve function.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between adult and teen orthodontics?
The main difference is that adult jaws are fully developed, which can make certain types of orthodontic movement more complex. Adults may also have issues like gum disease, worn or missing teeth, or a history of incomplete treatment—factors that require more personalized planning.
Absolutely. Many adults in North York choose braces or Invisalign to correct misaligned teeth, improve their bite, and enhance their smile. At IKC Orthodontics, we offer discreet, modern options designed to fit your lifestyle and comfort.  
Not at all. Many adult patients come to us after their teeth have shifted due to incomplete orthodontic treatment or lack of retainer use. We can create a customized treatment plan to realign your teeth and give you lasting results.
Jaw surgery may be recommended if you have facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing, severe bite misalignment, or obstructive sleep apnea related to jaw positioning. Dr. Kivity-Chandler collaborates with oral surgeons to manage complex jaw correction cases.
Yes. Misaligned teeth or an uneven bite can contribute to TMD symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and clicking sounds. Dr. Kivity-Chandler specializes in treating TMD in adults through orthodontic and therapeutic solutions tailored to your needs.
Treatment times vary based on your specific case, but most adult orthodontic plans take between 12 to 30 months. We’ll provide a clear timeline during your consultation at our North York orthodontic office, so you know what to expect from start to finish.

Begin Your Journey Toward a Healthier, More Confident Smile

At IKC Orthodontics, we believe that every adult deserves the chance to smile freely and live without dental discomfort. Whether you’re exploring orthodontics for health reasons, cosmetic improvements, or both, we’re here to support you with expert care, modern solutions, and a compassionate approach.
Call (416)-787-9060 to schedule an appointment
Book Your Consultation Today
IKC Orthodontics proudly serves families and individuals in North York, Toronto, and surrounding areas with comprehensive orthodontic services. From traditional braces and Invisalign® to early orthodontic care and airway assessments, we are committed to creating healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Book your consultation today and discover why IKC Orthodontics is a trusted name for orthodontic care in North York and Toronto.

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