Adult Treatment

There is no age discrimination when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Although once a treatment aimed at school-aged children, orthodontics can be successful at any age. A beautiful smile and its benefits are especially appreciated by adults. The numbers do not lie, as 20 percent of all patients in orthodontic treatment are age 21 and older. Age isn't a barrier when it comes to moving healthy teeth. Several orthodontic problems can be as easily corrected for adults as they are for children. Adult and children’s teeth are moved in the same way by orthodontic forces, but the difference could be that adult treatment may take longer due to the maturity of the bone.

Different treatment planning needs for the adult hinge on complicating factors, such as lack of jaw growth. A consultation with an orthodontist is imperative.

Jaw surgery may be necessary for adult orthodontic patients because of a lack of jaw growth. Some adults also may have experienced some breakdown or loss of teeth and supporting bone, which could require periodontal treatment before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. Bone loss can limit the amount and direction of tooth movement.

Orthodontic treatment may be only a part of the patient's overall treatment plan. A treatment management plan requires close coordination among the orthodontist, oral surgeon, periodontist, endodontist and family dentist to assure that the overall plan is managed well. A dentist could recommend orthodontics to treat you in the best manner possible to bring you to optimal dental health. Many tooth restorations such as crowns, bridges and implants can earn the best results when remaining teeth are properly aligned and the bite is correct.

(source: www.braces.org American Association or Orthodontists)