What do you think of when you hear the word “orthodontics”? Most people tend to think of teenagers and braces. This stereotype tends to stick around, even though it’s becoming less and less true. At Foothill Orthodontics, we do treat many teens, but orthodontics can benefit patients of any age. And that includes adults! We see more adults than ever. About 1 in every 5 patients looks to straighten their teeth are older than 18, so there’s no need to wonder, “am I too old for braces?”
If you’ve always been unhappy with your smile, or if you’re looking for a tune-up, Foothill Orthodontics is thrilled to offer many treatment options to correct crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, bad jaw positioning, and more. To learn a bit more about what orthodontics actually is, and how it can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, keep reading below!
What is orthodontics?
“Dentistry” can be a lot of things, and there are a lot of different specialties to treat a wide range of oral problems. Orthodontics is one of those specialties. They’ve received years of additional education and training to correct bite issues while also straightening teeth, correcting misaligned and jaws, and ultimately helping your whole mouth function better.
An experienced orthodontist like Dr. Chandler or Dr. Anderson can diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities. If you don’t address these problems, they can get worse over time, causing damage to your teeth, gum tissue, and bone. This can lead to face and neck pain, headaches, and trouble chewing and speaking.
Orthodontists can diagnose and treat these types of issues, which can improve both the function and appearance of your smile.
Why are more adults choosing orthodontic treatment?
There are many reasons why adults may choose to pursue orthodontic treatment. Many people, as they get older, gain a deeper understanding of how their oral health connects to their total body health. For some people, this knowledge encourages them to take action by seeking out dental or orthodontic treatment that will allow them to better care for their teeth and gums.
We also find that many adults had orthodontic treatment when they were younger and either want to complete the process, or they want a touch-up. Teeth that were straightened in a patient’s younger years can shift over time due to age, genetics, or improper retainer use. In these cases, we have multiple options, including monitoring the teeth, providing new retainers, or re-treating with braces or aligners.
Then there are the adults who have never had treatment before but are simply looking to improve the look of their smile. This boosts their confidence and self-esteem, and can even have a positive impact on their personal and professional lives.
What orthodontic options are available for adult patients?
Whatever your reason for seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, there are more options than ever before! Foothill Orthodontics offers the following procedures for a total smile makeover.
Metal Braces
In the past, metal braces have received a reputation for being awkward and obvious, but modern orthodontics has changed that. You’ll reap the benefits of braces that are smaller, less conspicuous, and more comfortable than ever before. Sleeker brackets and lighter wires improve the appearance and feel of these braces. This means you will have less irritation in your mouth. Metal braces are a cost-effective option because they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do. The strength, durability, and affordability of traditional metal braces keep them the top treatment for orthodontic patients, year after year!
Clear Braces
Ceramic braces are perfect if you want an aesthetic treatment option but don’t want the extra hassle of removable aligners and the responsibility of wear time with clear aligner systems like Invisalign®. Ceramic brackets are a less obvious way to straighten your smile when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties. This option is especially attractive if you are an aesthetic-minded adult or teen.
In-brace
Lingual braces are a great cosmetic alternative to traditional braces for straightening your teeth. They’re places behind your teeth instead of in the front. To make your lingual braces, we’ll start by taking a digital impression of your teeth and sending it to a dental laboratory. They’ll use the impression to create customized wires. The process takes about six weeks and allows Dr. Chandler or Dr. Anderson to cement the braces onto the backs of your teeth in specific ways.
Invisalign clear aligner therapy
The Invisalign system uses clear removable aligners made just for you to gently move your teeth into place over time. They do that when you wear them 20-22 hours per day throughout treatment, and replacing them every 1-2 weeks for the next aligner in the system. Invisalign offers patients freedom and flexibility that traditional braces can’t! There are no food restrictions since aligners are removed when eating or drinking. They also make it easier to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy since you don’t have to work around wires and brackets, and can brush and floss normally.
Any of these options can be a great fit for busy adults! You can trust Dr. Chandler or Dr. Anderson to recommend only the treatment method she feels will work best with your smile, lifestyle, and goals.
Get the smile you’ve been waiting for with Foothill Orthodontics
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment at Foothill Orthodontics. Your smile is unique, and the perfect treatment for you might not be ideal for everyone.
That’s why it’s so important to choose an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Chandler and Dr. Anderson! They will build a personalized treatment plan for you based on your specific needs, giving you a positive orthodontic experience and superior results.
Our talented team is committed to providing the latest in orthodontic techniques and technology for patients of all ages in Foothill, Holladay, and the surrounding communities. It’s never too late to get the smile you’ve always wanted. You can take the first step today by calling us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chandler or Dr. Anderson!
