You’re not alone if you’ve ever believed that the opportunity for orthodontic treatment passed you by during childhood or adolescence. However, the notion that this is the only time frame for braces or other treatments is entirely untrue! Today, Kottemann Orthodontics wants to answer this question: What are some benefits of orthodontic treatment for adults?
Understanding Orthodontic Treatment
Before we talk about how they apply to adult patients, let’s talk about braces. They are a method used to correct alignment and bite issues in teeth. There are a few means of achieving this:
- Traditional metal braces represent a widely chosen and timeless option. They comprise brackets, wires, and bands that collaborate to reposition your teeth or bite.
- Clear braces feature brackets crafted from a ceramic material, providing a more subtle appearance for individuals seeking a natural effect.
- Invisalign on the other hand, dispenses with conventional elements, employing plastic trays to gradually transform your smile.
In our office, we also offer the following services:
- Accelerated Orthodontics (The AcceleDent System, OrthoPulse, and Propel)
Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
With all of that being said, there are actually some positives to waiting until adulthood for orthodontic treatment.
- Improved Oral Health: Braces and aligners often prioritize oral health over cosmetic considerations. Correcting bite and alignment issues can reduce the likelihood of gum disease, cavities, and jaw discomfort.
- Enhanced Appearance: However, if cosmetic concerns are paramount, braces offer an effective solution. A smile you’re proud of can significantly boost your confidence and overall well-being..
- Functional Improvements: Properly aligned teeth facilitate better chewing and clearer speech. For individuals with longstanding speech difficulties, braces can make a significant difference.
- Prevention of Further Damage: Misalignment often leads to teeth wearing down due to grinding. Braces can halt this process, preventing additional wear and tear.
- Jaw Relief: Braces can alleviate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders by optimizing jaw alignment. Patients experiencing these conditions typically endure frequent pain and discomfort when left untreated.
- Versatile Treatment Options: Adults have a range of brace options tailored to their specific needs. This flexibility allows for a choice that aligns with lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
- Personalized Treatment: Adults can actively collaborate with their orthodontists to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their goals and addresses individual concerns.
- Increased Accessibility: Adult braces have gained widespread acceptance as a mainstream treatment option over the years, reducing the social stigma associated with orthodontic treatment in adulthood.
- Long-Term Savings: Addressing your orthodontic issues as an adult can prevent more significant dental problems as you age and could reduce the need for more costly treatments as time goes on.
- Lifelong Benefits: Investing in adult orthodontic treatment will often provide you benefits for the rest of your life, including your dental health, enhanced appearance, and increased self-confidence.
Further Questions
We expect you to have questions—everyone does! Our doctors are at your service to answer them. Here are a few that might arise prior to consultation:
- Can I still get braces with issues like cavities or gum disease?
Addressing these issues beforehand is recommended. We frequently partner with general dentists to incorporate this treatment into the comprehensive treatment plan.
- When does orthodontic surgery become an option?
There are a number of reasons we might determine the need for surgical orthodontics. This can include improper bites, implants, TMJ surgery, facial trauma, or wisdom teeth removal. We will always explain these reasons to you thoroughly based on your individual case and condition. You will never be left in the dark.
- What is accelerated orthodontics?
Braces can be notorious to some as a long-term commitment. Accelerated orthodontics is a newer option, which utilizes devices that work for ten to twenty minutes at a time. They use technology like vibration and pulses of light to achieve alignment. Be sure to ask our Kottemann Orthodontics team about this amazing method if you’re curious!
- How do you handle orthodontic emergencies?
In cases of significant damage, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. However, for minor damage to your appliance, orthodontic wax can serve as a temporary solution until your visit to our office for proper repair. Our team will provide further details on emergency measures during your appointment. We also offer some tips on this page on our website.
No Time Like Now
Regardless of your age, you’re likely an excellent candidate for braces and may also qualify for additional treatment options. If you’ve been considering treatment for some time, the Kottemann Orthodontics team invites you to schedule a complimentary consultation at any of our convenient locations: Chaska, Maple Grove, Orono, or Plymouth.