Adult Orthodontics

Adult orthodontics can help people achieve the smile they have always wanted, even later on in life. It is never too late to receive orthodontic treatment. Patients who receive orthodontics as adults can benefit from a more beautiful smile and improved oral health.

Orthodontic treatment is not only for children and teens. We provide adult orthodontics at Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry in Reston and the surrounding area. Call us today at 703-391-8800 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Reasons To Get Adult Orthodontics

More adults are choosing to receive orthodontic treatment than ever before. Now, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult, according to the American Association of Orthodontics. From enhancing the appearance of smiles to improving oral health, there are many reasons to get adult orthodontics.

Untreated misaligned teeth and jaws can have adverse effects on dental and overall health. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean thoroughly, leading to more bacteria and plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas. Without proper treatment, crooked teeth can lead to other dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. In severe cases of misalignment, teeth can also cause headaches and pain or discomfort while chewing or swallowing.

Orthodontic Options for Adults

There are now more orthodontic options to meet the needs and preferences of adult patients. Besides conventional metal braces, more aesthetically pleasing options are available, such as ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and Invisalign®. While the structure of ceramic braces is similar to conventional braces, they consist of tooth-colored brackets that are less visible. Self-ligating braces straighten teeth with brackets and an archwire without the use of attention-grabbing colored rubber bands.

Invisalign is another discreet orthodontic option that involves wearing a series of nearly invisible plastic aligners over teeth. A consultation is essential for patients to understand their options and discuss their smile goals. Not every type of appliance is appropriate for treating every orthodontic problem. Our team will determine the right option for each patient’s needs.

Considerations for Adults Who Want Braces

Although many adults can get great orthodontic results, certain situations can impact treatment. In some cases, having one or more extracted teeth can present a problem if the extraction site is not a suitable location for other teeth to enter. Patients may need to have their extraction sites restored before orthodontic treatment can begin.

There are also age-related considerations for adult orthodontics including marginal bone loss, mild gum infections, and the risk of developing temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms. Additionally, adults with issues such as deep overbites may not have sufficient room in their mouths without the extraction of one or more teeth. We will assess each situation before recommending the right treatment to produce optimal results and keep patients safe.

How Adult Orthodontics Differ From Kids Orthodontics

Although adult orthodontics can treat many of the same issues as orthodontics for children or teens, there are some key differences. Adult bones are hard compared to the more malleable bones of children and teens. This difference means that orthodontic treatment takes longer for adults since their tissues are older and their bones have stopped growing.

The length of treatment will vary for each patient but is typically longer for adults than children. The average length of an adult’s orthodontic treatment is around two years due to biomechanical limitations. Some adults may also require additional surgery to accomplish some structural changes. Adults are also at greater risk of root resorption than younger patients. Our team will carefully monitor teeth to watch for signs of root resorption and other complications.

Boost Confidence With Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment not only helps adults improve their oral health but also their psychological well-being. A crooked or gapped smile can be a major source of insecurity, causing people to feel self-conscious and shy. Fortunately, straight and healthy-looking smiles from adult orthodontics can transform patients’ approaches and outlooks on life.

The confidence that comes from a beautiful smile can impact every aspect of a person’s life, including their career, social life, and happiness. A study in the journal, The Angle Orthodontist, found significant psychological benefits to orthodontic treatment for adults needing oral rehabilitation. Study participants reported a significant increase in self-esteem and quality of life.

Call Us Today

Adult orthodontics is a great option for people interested in enhancing their smile’s appearance and health. Our team at Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry will help you smile with confidence. Call us today at 703-391-8800 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do self-ligating braces work without rubber bands?

Self-ligating braces utilize specialized brackets that directly hold the archwire instead of rubber bands. The brackets have a slot that the archwire goes through, locking it in place. They have a more discrete appearance than conventional braces and require less frequent adjustment appointments.

Is Invisalign treatment painful?

Invisalign treatment is not painful. However, it can cause discomfort since the aligner trays are exerting constant pressure on teeth. These feelings are usually present after moving onto a new set of trays and are temporary.

How should I clean my braces?

It is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing braces. Without proper cleaning, braces can cause debris and bacteria to build up in hard-to-reach areas. Patients should brush their teeth twice a day and floss at least once, making sure to clean between their braces and teeth.

Can ceramic braces stain?

The brackets of ceramic braces do not stain easily. However, the rubber bands on the ceramic brackets can since they are usually white. Patients should avoid consuming staining foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, and tomato sauce.

Who is a candidate for Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign treatment is a great orthodontic option for people looking for a virtually invisible method to straighten teeth. These clear aligners can correct many of the same orthodontic issues as other types of braces, such as crooked teeth, underbites, overbites, crossbites, and small gaps. However, Invisalign has some limitations when it comes to more complex corrections, including large gaps and tooth rotations.