Adult Treatment

Did you know that 4 million people in the U.S wear braces? Twenty five percent of that number are adults. The braces that are available today are quite different than what was available when you were a child. Because of these advancements, more and more adults are seeking solutions to correct alignment issues that were not addressed in childhood.

Have you been wanting to straighten your teeth? It’s not too late, braces are for adults too.

Braces Today

How have braces changed since you were a child? The answer is quite a bit! You will have a wide variety of options to choose from. Those options will most likely include:

• Traditional: Made with steel and metal brackets, but stronger and more light weight than traditional braces used to be.
• Ceramic: Similar to traditional braces, but less conspicuous due to the transparent ceramic material
• Forsus Appliances: For difficult overbites. An appliance is placed inside the cheek and then attached to the braces.
• Palatal Expanders: For over crowded teeth.
• Self Ligating: Similar to comprehensive braces, except they do not utilize elastomeric rings or ligature wires.
• Invisalign®: A clear aligner that corrects malocclusion.

Some Biomechanical Limitations You May Face

It is better to get braces as a child. The bones of a child are still soft and growing. They do not suffer from bone loss and their tissue is more adaptable to adjustments. If you are an adult who is getting or considering braces, you should understand the challenges you might face.

Extraction Issues: Previous tooth extraction sites may present complications. When you lose a tooth, bone loss occurs underneath the empty pocket. We might have to add prosthetic bone. This involves a routine procedure with minimal discomfort that is easily managed.

Compromised Oral Health: Children are usually in better health than adults. It is not uncommon for an adult to have mild gingivitis or periodontitis. Do not worry! We will address these concerns before we get started.

Bone Mass: As you age and stop growing, your bones become harder, and less dense. Compromised bone mass in the mouth can lead to inadequate blood flow at the root of the tooth. It will be more difficult for your mouth as a whole to shift and re-adjust into the right positions.

Why Get Braces?

Are you feeling a little overwhelmed by the obstacles you might face? Try not to worry too much. Braces are beneficial for nearly every patient regardless of age, and Amy James, DMD, MS will be guiding you every step of the way. The alternative is much worse. If you have jaw alignment issues, otherwise known as a malocclusion, or crooked or overcrowded teeth the challenges will be much greater than if you invest in braces now.
If you are in need of braces but do not get them you are at a greater risk for:

• Tooth decay
• Periodontitis
• Headaches
• Oral bacterial infections
• Ear aches
• TMJ
• Trouble eating and speaking
• Halitosis
• Sleep apnea and snoring

Make An Appointment

Have you always regretted not getting braces as a child? Is your overbite getting worse and causing you problems? Are you ready to have straight teeth and a healthy smile? Call Dr. Amy James and Associates Orthodontists today at (856) 216-8009.