Adult Treatment

Adult treatment in orthodontics refers to specialized dental care aimed at correcting dental alignment issues in individuals beyond their teenage years. Unlike adolescents, adult orthodontic patients often require treatments that consider gum health, bone density, and existing dental work, such as crowns or bridges. Standard methods include traditional braces, clear aligners like Invisalign or Spark, and lingual braces discreetly positioned behind the teeth. These treatments enhance smile aesthetics, improve oral function, reduce the risk of dental problems like decay and gum disease, and boost overall self-confidence. Adult orthodontic care is tailored to individual needs, ensuring effective results while considering adult patients' unique lifestyles and dental health considerations. 

Why Adults Seek Orthodontic Treatment 

Aesthetic Improvement

Many adults want to improve the appearance of their smile by straightening crooked or misaligned teeth. A straighter smile can enhance facial aesthetics, boost self-confidence, and improve overall attractiveness. 

Health Benefits

Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and uneven wear. Orthodontic treatment can also alleviate problems related to jaw misalignment or improper bite, which may cause discomfort or difficulty chewing. 

Prevention of Dental Issues

Addressing alignment issues can prevent future dental problems and maintain oral health in the long term. Straight teeth are less prone to decay and gum inflammation, contributing to overall dental stability. 

Career and Social Advantages

A confident smile can positively impact personal and professional relationships. Adults may seek orthodontic treatment to enhance their appearance, boost self-esteem, and improve their social interactions and career prospects. 

Comfort and Functionality

Orthodontic treatment can improve bite function, speech clarity, and overall dental comfort. After achieving proper teeth alignment, adults may experience less strain on their jaw joints and facial muscles. 

Orthodontic Technology Advancements

Advances in orthodontic technology have made treatments more discreet and convenient. Options like clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign, Spark) allow adults to straighten their teeth with minimal impact on their daily lives. 

Desire for Long-term Dental Stability

Many adults recognize the importance of maintaining their oral health as they age. Orthodontic treatment enhances smile aesthetics and contributes to long-term dental stability by addressing alignment issues early on. 

Orthodontic Options for Adults 

Traditional Braces

Although often associated with teenagers, traditional metal braces remain a reliable and effective option for adults. They consist of metal brackets bonded to the front of teeth, connected by wires, and adjusted periodically by an orthodontist to move teeth into proper alignment gradually. Modern braces are more comfortable and less conspicuous than those used in the past, making them a practical choice for adults seeking comprehensive treatment. 

Benefits: 

• Precisely controls tooth movement, correcting even severe dental issues. 

• Orthodontists can accurately plan and achieve desired alignment outcomes. 

• Ideal for complex orthodontic problems like severe crowding or misalignment. 

• Made from solid metal components, ensuring reliability throughout treatment. 

• Generally more affordable compared to some alternative orthodontic treatments. 

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are virtually invisible and removable, making them discreet and convenient. They allow for easy maintenance of oral hygiene and dietary flexibility during treatment. Aligners are customized for comfort and use advanced technology for predictable results. 

Benefits: 

• Clear aligners are virtually invisible when worn, making them aesthetically appealing and less noticeable than traditional braces. 

• Aligners can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene maintenance and enjoying all foods without restrictions. 

• Made from smooth, comfortable plastic, aligners do not have sharp edges or wires that can irritate the mouth and gums. 

• Treatment plans are customized using advanced 3D imaging technology, providing a clear roadmap for gradual teeth movement and predictable results. 

• Unlike braces, there are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink during treatment, as aligners are removed during meals.: 

Ceramic Braces

These braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets and wires, blending with teeth for a less noticeable appearance than traditional braces. They offer effective alignment and aesthetic appeal. 

Benefits: 

• Tooth-colored or clear ceramic brackets blend with teeth' natural color, making them less noticeable than traditional metal braces. 

• Provide precise control over tooth movement, correcting various dental issues, including crowding and misalignment. 

• Made from ceramic solid materials that withstand daily wear and tear throughout treatment. 

• Compared to traditional metal braces, smooth brackets, and wires minimize irritation to the gums and cheeks. 

• Unlike metal braces, ceramic braces offer a less conspicuous option while delivering reliable alignment results. 

Self-Ligating Braces

Utilizing brackets that do not require elastic or metal ties, self-ligating braces reduce friction and discomfort while potentially speeding up treatment. They offer a comfortable and efficient orthodontic experience. 

Benefits: 

• Specialized brackets eliminate the need for elastic or metal ties, reducing friction between brackets and wires. 

• Lower friction allows teeth to move more freely, potentially shortening overall treatment time. 

• Minimal friction means less pressure and discomfort during adjustments. 

• Self-ligating brackets are easier to clean than traditional braces, reducing the risk of plaque buildup. 

• Better hygiene reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease during treatment. 

Adult orthodontic treatment offers a transformative opportunity to achieve a straighter, healthier smile at any stage of life. Visit Dental Specialists of New York PC at 150 East 58th Street, New York, NY 10155, 110 York Street Brooklyn, NY 11201, or 476 48th Street, 3rd Floor Brooklyn, NY 11220, to explore the best orthodontic solution for you and embark on the journey to a straighter smile today. You can schedule an appointment online or call us at (212) 661-2192.