Orthodontic Treatment at PDOVA
At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Virginia, our orthodontic specialists are treating increasing numbers of adult patients. Our patients are not only adults in their 20s to 40s; but also patients aged 50 and better! Some of our young-adult and middle-aged patients find a “Mommy and me” or “Daddy and me” plan enticing, as it saves time and money for families to synchronize their orthodontic treatment visits.
Older adults may be nearing retirement and thinking about finally giving themselves the gift of the smile they have always wanted. Dentists also increasingly refer older patients with misaligned bites or other oral health and comfort issues to orthodontists — because as long as a patient has their teeth and doesn’t suffer from gum disease, they have the potential to retain their original teeth for a lifetime. Many adults who come in for orthodontic treatment are motivated by concerns over both aesthetics and functionality. They want to correct not only the appearance of their smile but also issues that may be causing them discomfort, such as jaw pain or difficulty chewing.
It is a wise investment to straighten and correct the spacing of your teeth because crowded teeth or teeth that overlap are harder to clean, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease. Poor tooth alignment can also put excessive stress on the muscles we use for chewing, causing facial and jaw pain. Unlike earlier older adult generations, we have the option of wearing braces now to help avoid the need for dentures or dental implants later. In fact, some of our adult patients are surprised to learn that correcting bite issues can also improve their overall health by alleviating issues like sleep apnea or TMJ disorders, which may have been undiagnosed in the past.
What Kind of Braces Should/Would I Get as an Adult?
As you may already know, braces options are available which are more aesthetically pleasing and less painful than the “metal mouth” option. In fact, orthodontists no longer place metal bands around each tooth. Ceramic braces are available with tooth-colored brackets, and clear braces such as Invisalign are barely detectable. These orthodontic treatment options offer an excellent way for adults to correct their dental issues without feeling self-conscious about their appearance during the treatment process.
You can mix and match braces technology so that it works for you, such as choosing to wear ceramic brackets on your top teeth and metal brackets on your lower teeth (actually, metal brackets are smaller than ceramic brackets and more comfortable against your lower lip). Lingual braces are affixed to the back of your lower teeth so they cannot be seen, making them a popular choice for individuals who prioritize discretion. These orthodontic treatment options are designed to give adults the flexibility they need to feel comfortable with their orthodontic treatment and still maintain a natural appearance.
What Is the Typical Length of Orthodontic Treatment for Adults?
Generally, adults do need to wear whichever type of braces they select for at least two years. Braces wires are lighter and stronger, but it is more challenging to position adult teeth and jaws correctly. Since adult bones are denser than those of children, treatment may take a bit longer. However, the advancements in orthodontic technology have made it easier than ever to speed up the process, and many adults find that the results are well worth the wait.
The mutual benefit for orthodontists and their adult clients is that motivated adults tend to be extremely treatment-compliant and attain outstanding results. Adults are often more committed to following their orthodontist’s instructions and attending regular check-ups, which contributes to their success in achieving their desired outcome. With a clear understanding of the importance of proper dental care, they are more likely to maintain the health of their teeth throughout the process.
At PDOVA, we enjoy the complimentary orthodontic consultations we offer for adults. Adults who wish to have orthodontic treatment often come to us eager to articulate their reasons for considering orthodontic treatment, as well as their expectations of “successful treatment.” Our team takes the time to listen and develop a customized orthodontic treatment plan that meets each individual’s unique needs and goals. Please contact us at Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Virginia by calling (804) 739-0963 or schedule your complimentary consultation online. We look forward to meeting you and setting up your customized treatment plan, and helping you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile for years to come!