Am I a Good Fit for Orthodontic Treatment?
Consulting with an orthodontist can help to determine if you can benefit from treatment. After carefully analyzing the nature of your needed correction, your orthodontist will recommend the best course of treatment for improving your smile.
I’m Missing Some Teeth. Can Orthodontic Treatment Improve My Bite?
Orthodontic treatment can create or hold space to replace missing teeth. The orthodontist will work with the dentist or dental specialist who will provide implant replacement of the missing teeth so that the patient achieves the best result.
I’ve been Treated for Gum Disease. Can My Teeth be Straightened?
Your orthodontist will consult with your dentist and/or periodontist about the health of your gums. If you are a candidate for orthodontic treatment, you will continue regular supervision with your dentist and periodontist. In many cases, tooth alignment can improve the health of the gums.
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity, and the length of the treatment. Your orthodontist will be glad to discuss the cost with you before treatment begins. Patients are finding that braces are more affordable today than ever. Most orthodontists offer a variety of convenient payment plans, and many dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits.
It’s Never Too Late to Be Your Best
You’re never too old to benefit from orthodontic treatment. Today, adults make up about one in every five orthodontic patients. Here’s why:
Looking Good
Orthodontic treatment can help correct crooked teeth or spaces of which you’ve been self-conscious for years. It can give you the confidence and pride that come with straight teeth and a great smile.
Maintaining Dental Health
Leaving misaligned teeth untreated may lead to other dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease, as well as abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces and difficulty chewing. Orthodontic treatment can help you maintain good dental health.
Advances in orthodontics have made treatment more comfortable and more successful than ever for people of all ages. Orthodontists work with other dental practitioners (general dentists, periodontists, prosthodontists, oral surgeons, etc.) to provide a comprehensive approach to your dental health.
Questions and Answers
Is Orthodontic Treatment Effective for Adults?
Yes. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children. Orthodontic appliances move teeth in the same way for both adults and children.
Do Appliances have to Show?
Many options are available today to minimize the appearance of braces. Today’s appliances are smaller and sleeker, and some are next to invisible. Your orthodontist can advise you as to what options are recommended for your particular needs.
Will Orthodontic Treatment Fit My Lifestyle?
You can do almost anything during orthodontic treatment: sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken. Some adjustments will be necessary, but, if you’re like the vast majority of adult patients, you’ll adjust quickly. New techniques and materials today have made wearing braces more comfortable than ever.