Orthodontic care isn’t just for youngsters; it’s equally important and effective for adults. In fact, about 20% of orthodontic patients today are adults, emphasizing that it’s never too late for treatment.
Why Do Adults Choose Orthodontic Care?
Adults and children seek orthodontic treatment for similar reasons, yet adult care often comes with unique considerations. Some adults might not have had the opportunity to address orthodontic issues during childhood, while others might experience changes from previous treatments as they age. Whatever the reason, orthodontic care can offer significant benefits at any age.
Advantages of Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic care for adults can profoundly impact dental health and personal confidence. Key benefits include:
- Enhancing smile aesthetics for a more confident and radiant appearance.
- Correcting shifts in teeth alignment since previous treatments, often due to not wearing retainers consistently.
- Improving oral hygiene capabilities, especially for those with crowded or overlapping teeth.
- Enhancing the function and comfort of your bite, facilitating better chewing.
- Strategically addressing gaps or missing teeth issues.
- Mitigating tooth wear from grinding or suboptimal bite alignment.
- Considering jaw surgery for substantial upper and lower jaw misalignments.
Concerns About Braces’ Look
Many adults worry about how braces might affect their professional or personal image. Invisalign® offers a discreet solution with its clear, removable aligners crafted using advanced 3D imaging technology. For more complex cases, transparent ceramic brackets are an aesthetic alternative to traditional metal ones.
Comfort and Adjustment Period
Orthodontic processes are comparably comfortable across all ages. Adults typically report similar experiences of discomfort as children do, but they tend to communicate it more openly.
Generally, any soreness peaks within the first day after an adjustment and eases over the next few days. Thanks to smaller, advanced appliances and the latest in titanium technology, treatments are quicker and less frequent, averaging 15-18 months, depending on individual needs.
Cost Considerations
The cost for adult orthodontics is assessed similarly to those for younger patients, based on the intricacy of the issue, treatment method, and duration.
Dr. Nader Ehsani and Dr. Sherry Sabet have successfully treated patients ranging into their 70s, proving it’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always desired with San Marcos Orthodontics.
