Adult Orthodontics: You Are Not Too Old To Get A Straighter Smile!

If you’re an adult and you’re self-conscious about your smile due to issues like crooked or crowded teeth, or you have bite problems like an underbite or an overbite, you may think it’s too late to have your teeth corrected and straightened with orthodontics.

But that’s not true! People of all ages, including adults, can benefit from expert orthodontic treatment. In this blog from Mansfield Orthodontics, we’ll take a look at the basics about adult orthodontics, and explain why investing in orthodontics is a great idea at any age.

How Is Adult Orthodontics Different Than Orthodontics For Kids?

Typically, orthodontic treatment is recommended for kids and teenagers because their mouths, teeth, and jaws are still growing. With early intervention, it’s easy to correct issues like crooked and crowded teeth and bite problems.

In adult orthodontics, things are a little bit different. First, your bones have stopped growing, which means that some structural changes to your jaws cannot be made without orthognathic surgery (corrective jaw surgery). However, this is typically only required for patients with severe orthodontic problems. 

Because of this, the entire process may also take longer for an adult than a child or an adolescent. In most cases, you’ll need to wear braces for at least two years, or wear Invisalign for at least one year. 

What To Expect From The Treatment Process

The orthodontic treatment process will begin with a consultation at Mansfield Orthodontics. Dr. Mindy Altemose will examine your teeth and take x-rays and images of your jaw to assess your bite and the overall structure of your mouth.

Using this information, Dr. Altemose will be able to determine if you’re a good candidate for adult orthodontics, and explore your options such as braces or Invisalign. After you’ve committed to orthodontic treatment, you’ll come in for a follow-up to get your Invisalign aligners, or to get your braces.

From here, the treatment process can vary quite a bit depending on whether you’ve gotten Invisalign or braces, and whether or not you need any corrective surgeries. Dr. Altemose and the team at Mansfield Orthodontics will guide you through the entire process. 

What Are The Benefits Of Adult Orthodontics?

Why bother correcting your smile with orthodontics as an adult? Here are a few of the best reasons. 

• Enhanced self-confidence – A bright, straight, and beautiful smile can make you feel great about your appearance, especially if you’ve felt self-conscious about your bite and your teeth in the past.
  
  
• Better oral hygiene – Once your smile has been corrected, it will be easier to brush and floss because you’ll have even, consistent spacing between your teeth. This leads to better overall oral hygiene.
  
  
• Reduced wear & tear on your teeth – Poorly-aligned teeth can be subjected to a lot of stress and wear & tear, particularly if you grind your teeth. This can lead to premature tooth damage and loss. But with adult orthodontics, you can make sure your bite is healthy and even, and reduce teeth wear & tear. 
  

Come To Mansfield Orthodontics For An Orthodontic Consultation

You’re never too old to get the smile you deserve. So if you’re struggling with teeth and bite alignment issues, don’t wait. Contact Mansfield Orthodontics online or give us a call at (508) 964-4800 to get a consultation with Dr. Mindy Altemose, and start your journey to a straighter, more beautiful smile right away.