Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Raleigh, North Carolina
The American Association of Orthodontists has reported that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Adults are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care more than ever, and now you can too at our orthodontic office in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Adults consider orthodontic care for a variety of reasons. Teeth may be overcrowded or spaced far apart, resulting in gaps. Overlapping teeth can be difficult to clean. An even more serious issue that causes adults to seek orthodontic care occurs when the bottom and top teeth are misaligned as they approach each other when the jaw closes. This is called malocclusion and can make chewing and even speaking difficult. Other common reasons that adults visit an orthodontist in Raleigh include abnormal jaw pain or pressure, as well as desiring a more confident smile.
Treatment Options for Adults
There are many orthodontic treatment options to fit adult lifestyles. Our experienced orthodontists in Raleigh will work with you to make sure that your treatment plan is the best fit. We know that the thought of having metal braces is enough to discourage an adult from receiving treatment, but we offer a variety of types of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and customized to meet your needs.
Our most popular braces for adults are:
Adult Orthodontics vs. Children, Pre-teens, and Teens Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment for children, pre-teens, and teens differs from treatment for adults. Younger patients are still growing and their oral bone structure is constantly changing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing. For this reason, orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be needed to make an adult’s treatment as successful as possible.
Adults are more likely to have had gingival (gum) recession or bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Your treatment plan may need to be modified to accommodate for any loss of bone or gum tissue surrounding your teeth.
Over time, teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can be corrected only with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.
Many adults who received orthodontic treatment as a child or teen have noticed changes as they’ve aged and once again want to achieve the healthy, confident smile they had after wearing braces when they were young.
Adults and children have different needs, requiring a different level of attention and care. We recognize this and work with our adult patients in an understanding, judgment-free, and respectful way to ensure that you receive the treatment that best fits your lifestyle.
Why You Should Consider Orthodontic Treatment As An Adult
Orthodontic treatment boosts your self-confidence, giving you a better quality of life and the freedom to smile without holding back!
Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to keep clean and help to prevent other health problems. Similarly, continuing to delay treatment can lead to more serious dental problems since malocclusions, in particular, worsen with age.
We take adult orthodontics seriously at Walton & Maready, and we know what a big decision it is to undergo treatment as an adult. Many things compete for your time, energy, and finances, so we work with you to find the most affordable and convenient orthodontic treatment that fits your lifestyle and results in the confident smile you’ve always wanted.
To learn more about your orthodontic treatment options, contact us to set up your free consultation today. Our free consultations include X-rays and communication of findings and recommendations to your general dentist.
