Adult orthodontics
Adult orthodontics in Humble, Texas
We’re seeing more and more adult orthodontic patients these days, and it’s not hard to figure out why. Barely noticeable braces for adults have been developed to ensure more discreet orthodontic treatment options.
Many adults realize that investing in a smile makeover can have significant benefits, socially and professionally. Straightening teeth can be an important part of that confidence-boosting makeover process.
Metal braces
This is probably what you think of when you picture someone wearing braces: small metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth. A thin wire runs through the brackets and is attached on either end to metal bands that go around a back molar.
Clear braces
Instead of noticeable metal braces, you can have almost invisible braces made of ceramic, plastic, or a combination. The brackets on clear braces are hardly visible, except for the thin wire running through.
Invisalign® clear aligners
Invisalign is a removable alternative to adult invisible braces. Invisalign is a series of custom-made clear plastic “trays”, called clear aligners. Each clear aligner set gradually moves your teeth until you have a straight, beautiful smile you love!
Post-orthodontic treatment for adults
Wearing a retainer after orthodontic treatment is crucial, no matter which type of adult braces you choose and what age you happen to be. Teeth that are not held in place by a retainer long enough for new supporting bone to develop around them can drift back to their original positions, and that’s certainly not something we — or you — want to see happen. We will instruct you on how to retain your new, more beautiful smile so it continues to make you look and feel great for years to come!
The difference between orthodontics for adults and kids
Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, so there’s no such thing as being too old for braces. However, orthodontic treatment for adults is different in two important respects:
- The growth and development of the jaws are complete in adults, so changes in actual jaw structure can’t be accomplished with orthodontic appliances in the way they can with growing children.
- Periodontal (gum) disease is more prevalent in adults than children. While wearing the orthodontic appliances, gentle forces will be applied to your teeth so they can move through their surrounding bone. Periodontal health plays a key role in all of this; if the gum tissues are not healthy during orthodontics, bone loss can result and weaken the long-term prognosis of your teeth. So any gum disease must be brought under control before orthodontic treatment begins. To maintain your periodontal health, you’ll need regular professional cleanings during orthodontic treatment while maintaining good oral hygiene at home.