Orthodontics in adults

Nowadays, a considerable number of orthodontic patients consist of adults. Many adults have come to appreciate that investing in a beautifully designed smile and improving smile alignment could affect their personal and professional lives. Although some assume orthodontics is impossible during adulthood, it is a wrong presumption. Even older adults with healthy gums can have their teeth straightened and dental irregularities corrected by receiving orthodontic treatment. New methods like invisible and ceramic braces let adults achieve a better-looking smile and healthier teeth without worrying about their appearance. Orthodontics enhances overall oral health and prevents issues such as cavities and jawbone resorption while also improving the appearance of your teeth.

Why do adults decide to have orthodontics?

Here are the top reasons adults choose to get orthodontic treatment:

• Improved dental aesthetics: Adults often seek orthodontic treatment because they are worried about tooth decay and gum disease. Straight teeth can help reduce these problems and make oral hygiene easier.
• Dental health concerns: Orthodontics improves tooth function, balances chewing forces, and helps improve bite, speech, and eating.
• Increased self-confidence: By correcting the appearance of their teeth, many adults gain more confidence in social and professional settings, which can positively impact their mood.

Adult fixed orthodontic procedure

Fixed orthodontics is a treatment method where an orthodontist uses fixed brackets and wires to straighten a patient’s teeth, resulting in a more beautiful smile. In this method, orthodontic appliances are permanently attached to the teeth and cannot be removed during treatment. Orthodontists believe patient satisfaction with the final results is generally higher when they undergo fixed orthodontics. The metal attachments used in this method are typically strong and prevent any shifting of the teeth during treatment. The main drawback is its less-than-ideal appearance during treatment; meanwhile, wires and brackets can be bothersome when remaining in the mouth for long. Yet, it remains a reliable method for correcting smile design.

Differences between the orthodontic process in adults and children

Children’s jaws and teeth are still developing, which makes it easier to orient them into the ideal position for a perfect smile. Adults have a fully developed jaw that is incapable of moving. This makes it impossible to change the jaw structure with orthodontic appliances the same way as a 9-year-old. On average, adult orthodontic treatment takes longer than children’s.

Types of fixed adult orthodontics

Technological breakthroughs, modern tools, and new methods allow orthodontists to adopt several approaches to address adult orthodontic problems. Fixed orthodontics is the most common and widely used orthodontic treatment. Other orthodontic methods tend to have higher costs. Invisible and removable orthodontics are two well-known orthodontic techniques that orthodontists use under certain conditions. Fixed orthodontics can be categorized into four main types based on the materials used and placement, but the underlying principles remain the same:

• Metal Orthodontics: Metal orthodontics is one of the most common methods for correcting dental misalignment. This method involves strong metal brackets and wires bonded to the teeth gradually moving them into the proper positions. While they may be more noticeable, metal braces are a popular choice due to their durability and effectiveness, especially for complex or long-term treatments.
• Lingual Orthodontics: Lingual orthodontics involves brackets and wires attached to the back of the teeth, making them nearly invisible. This makes them an excellent choice for patients concerned about their appearance. While lingual orthodontics requires higher specialization and may pose challenges to some patients, the method could achieve the desired results in correcting misalignment. Lingual orthodontics is an advanced fixed orthodontic approach.
• Ceramic Orthodontics: Ceramic orthodontics is similar to metal orthodontics but uses tooth-colored ceramic brackets that are less noticeable. They are a popular choice for adults conscious of their natural appearance. While ceramic braces may be more delicate than metal braces and require extra care, they offer a more pleasing appearance.
• Damon Orthodontics: Damon orthodontics uses a self-ligating system that applies gentle pressure to the teeth without requiring rubber bands and elastic chains. This can reduce treatment time and the frequency of adjustments compared to other methods. Damon brackets are typically smaller and more delicate, making them a good choice for adults seeking faster and more convenient orthodontic treatment.
• Invisible Orthodontics (Invisalign): Invisible orthodontics uses clear, removable aligners custom-made for each patient. These aligners are placed on your teeth and gently shift your teeth into place. Invisalign requires dedicated wear. For optimal results, it’s essential to wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily.
• Corrective or Camouflage Orthodontics: If you have mild jaw misalignment and healthy gums and teeth, corrective or camouflage orthodontics might be a proper choice. This approach avoids jaw surgery and uses orthodontic tools to straighten your teeth. It’s a great option for those who want to avoid surgery. This technique needs a skilled hand and should be performed by a competent orthodontist.

Fixed orthodontics is the most popular and effective choice for straightening teeth in adults. To ensure you’re selecting the right treatment, always seek advice from an orthodontist.

Special Considerations Before Orthodontic Treatment in Adulthood

An assessment of dental and gum health is crucial before starting orthodontic treatment. Cavities or gum infections can hinder the treatment process. Moreover, patients should understand that orthodontics requires commitment and meticulous care, as poor oral hygiene can lead to new problems. A detailed consultation with an orthodontist is necessary to select the most suitable treatment method and estimate costs. Here are some key points to consider before starting adult orthodontics:

• Treatment duration: The duration of orthodontic treatment for adults typically ranges from one and a half to two years and varies depending on the severity of dental and jaw issues. Children’s jaws and teeth are in a developmental phase, which allows for easier alignment into the ideal position for a beautiful smile. The jaws are fully developed in adults and cannot be repositioned, which means that changes to the jaw structure cannot be achieved with orthodontic appliances in the same way as in a 9-year-old child. On average, orthodontic treatment for adults takes longer than for children.
• Financial considerations: The cost of orthodontic treatment in adults varies based on the treatment approach and severity of the dental issue. For example, advanced options like clear aligners are typically more expensive than conventional metal brackets. Therefore, careful financial planning and consultation with an orthodontist are recommended to select the best treatment option.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Orthodontic treatment often necessitates modifying the diet and oral hygiene. For instance, reducing your intake of hard and sticky foods prevents you from damaging your braces or aligners. Additionally, using interdental brushes and special floss is essential to prevent plaque buildup and cavities. Lifestyle adjustments are necessary for successful orthodontic treatment.
• Commitment to oral hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. Brushing your teeth after every meal and daily flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help better manage oral hygiene.
• Care after orthodontic treatment: After your orthodontic treatment is complete, wearing a retainer is crucial to maintain your newly straightened teeth. Retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions. Following your orthodontist’s instructions carefully during this phase is essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their former positions.
• Medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood sugar, and hypotension: Individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure may need special care during orthodontic treatment. These medical conditions can slow down gum healing and increase the risk of gum infections or inflammation. If you have any medical concerns, seek advice from your orthodontist.

Benefits of adult orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment offers several benefits for adults. Contrary to popular belief, braces aren’t just for kids. As an adult, you can still achieve a beautiful, straight smile. You need to consult with an experienced orthodontist. Some of the advantages of adult orthodontics include:

1- Increased self-confidence and self-esteem

Beauty directly affects self-confidence and self-esteem. When adults receive treatment from a specialized orthodontist, aligned teeth help them smile elegantly. This enhances their social interactions.

2- Oral health

Orthodontic treatment enhances your teeth’s appearance and promotes your overall oral health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which minimizes the risk of cavities and gum disease. Moreover, orthodontics can prevent jawbone deterioration that occurs due to misaligned bites. As a result, your overall oral health and hygiene will improve.

3- Prevention of jawbone resorption

One of the primary benefits of adult orthodontics is preventing jawbone resorption. Misaligned teeth and jaws can stress the bone excessively, leading to resorption and loss over time. Orthodontic treatment helps restore jaw balance and distribute forces evenly, safeguarding your jawbone and gums. In fact, adult orthodontics guarantees the health of the jaw and gums.

4- Improved speech and digestion

Orthodontics can enhance both speech and chewing. Misaligned teeth can make it difficult to pronounce certain sounds or chew food effectively. Orthodontics can improve your speech clarity and make chewing easier by correcting the position of your teeth. This can positively impact your digestion and enhance the health of your digestive system.

5- Reduced risk of cavities

One advantage of adult orthodontics is the reduction in cavities. When teeth are crooked or misaligned, brushing and flossing become difficult. This makes it challenging to remove food particles and plaque effectively. Consequently, individuals with misaligned teeth are at a higher risk of developing cavities.

Challenges and drawbacks of adult orthodontics

While orthodontics is a great way to correct crooked or misaligned teeth, it comes with its challenges, just like any other treatment.

Challenges:

• Possible need for jaw surgery
• Increased risk of gum disease
• Calcium deficiency
• Possibility of jawbone resorption

Drawbacks:

• More pain and discomfort compared to children
• Risk of gum infection if teeth are not cared for properly
• Tooth decay
• Possibility of white spots on the teeth during orthodontic treatment

Recent innovations in adult orthodontics

In recent years, groundbreaking advancements in orthodontic technology have made treatment more comfortable and efficient. Clear aligners, which are removable and replaceable, have become a popular choice for many adults. Additionally, digital systems allow for highly customized treatment plans and simulations of future results, ensuring greater precision and accuracy. These innovations provide a more comfortable and convenient orthodontic experience for adults. Moreover, the application of artificial intelligence in dentistry enables orthodontists to estimate treatment outcomes with even greater precision.

FAQ about adult orthodontics