What is Adult Orthodontics?

Adult orthodontics is a treatment plan for adults over the age of 18 to address and correct long-standing issues such as overbites, underbites, and crooked teeth. By creating a custom dental appliance, your orthodontist can position your teeth and jaws to gradually align over time so you can enjoy the smile you deserve for the rest of your life. Whether your teeth need serious correcting or just minor aesthetic adjustments, adult orthodontics can help you find your confidence with a strong, straight smile.

The Orthodontic Process for Adults

Consultation

To begin your consultation, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your jaw, teeth, and gums to address any misalignment or bite problems. Our practice offers various smile alignment solutions, so your orthodontist can carefully select a custom treatment outline that best fits your unique needs.

Impressions and Digital Imaging

X-rays, photographs, mouth measurements, and bite impressions will be taken so that your orthodontist can properly diagnose the problem and create a tailored treatment plan just for you. After the data has been gathered and assessed, your orthodontist will then design a custom dental appliance for your smile.

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Placement and Fitting

After the dental appliance is created, your orthodontist will place it in your mouth and make necessary adjustments to ensure proper fitting and comfort. Your orthodontist will then provide you with care and maintenance instructions to keep your appliance and smile in tip-top shape.

Next Steps

Visit your orthodontist every 4-8 weeks to track progress, adjust your appliance, and follow up with any questions or concerns. While every adult orthodontic journey is unique, treatment can last anywhere from eighteen months to three years.

Adult Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear aligner system made from a durable patented plastic material called SmartTrack. Invisalign offers a wide variety of aligners, which can treat mild to severe misalignment cases. Many adults opt for Invisalign as it is the most subtle, discreet way to align a beautiful smile over time.

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Woman with Invisalign

Adult Braces

In some cases, the orthodontist may suggest braces for adults. We offer metal and ceramic braces that can effectively straighten your smile without having to worry about taking aligners in and out.

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Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are one of the most common and affordable options to correct mild to severe tooth and jaw misalignment. These braces are composed of durable, medical-grade stainless steel brackets and archwires to produce a natural, straight smile.

Next: Ceramic Braces
Metal Braces

Ceramic Braces

While similar in function to traditional metal braces, ceramic braces are made up of tooth-colored ceramic material that matches the natural shade of your smile. Many adult patients choose ceramic braces as a less-noticeable alternative to metal braces. With proper care and attention, ceramic braces guide your teeth to its coveted alignment for a healthy, straight smile and bite.

Next: Invisalign
Ceramic Braces

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