Adult Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is not just for children and teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists cites that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and the want to feel better about their appearance.

Benefits of Treatment

Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment in many ways including:

• Align the teeth to create a more esthetic and beautiful smile
• Correct relapse after previous orthodontic treatment due to lack of long-term retainer wear
• Improve the ability to brush and floss, especially for crowded or overlapping lower front teeth
• Create a better or more comfortable bite and ability to chew.
• Address missing teeth
• Close spaces between the teeth
• Reduce excessive wear on the teeth due to grinding or poor bite
• Jaw surgery to correct discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws

Appearance of Braces

Many adults are concerned with the appearance of braces. Often, Invisalign (the invisible alternative to braces) can be used to treat adults. This technology involves clear removable aligners, fabricated through advanced 3D imaging to align the teeth.

Soreness/Discomfort

Orthodontic treatment is no more uncomfortable for adults than children. Adults undergoing orthodontic treatment report the same level of soreness as children (although adults are more willing to tell us about the soreness).

Typically, the teeth are most uncomfortable 12-24 hours after an orthodontic adjustment and will disappear within 3 to 5 days. Modern appliances are smaller and more comfortable to wear. 

Cost

The fee for adult orthodontic treatment is determined the same way as child or adolescent treatment. It is based on the severity of the discrepancy, the complexity of the correction, the appliances used and the length of time to correct.

Dr. Doppel is trained in a wide range orthodontic treatments including:

• Surgical orthodontics – in coordination with an oral surgeon to address skeletal discrepancies and resulting problems such as difficulty eating, sleep apnea, and facial esthetics.
• Treatment incorporating Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (PAOO); TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices)
• Pre-prosthetic and limited orthodontics.
• Night guards/bite splints for those with teeth grinding or TMJ problems

Our office has treated individuals in their 50’s, 60’s, and even their 70’s. It is never too late to achieve the smile you have always wanted.