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Are you an adult contemplating orthodontics, wondering whether it is ever too late to achieve the beautiful smile you have always wanted? Well, you are not alone in this feeling. Many individuals believe that orthodontics is for teens only, but the truth is, it is never too late to have the perfect smile you have always wanted! Whether it is for an unaligned bite, crooked teeth, or even for aesthetic purposes, adult orthodontics is the answer to all of your oral health needs!
Adults in the Smyrna, TN, area who want to improve the appearance of their teeth are choosing clear braces, Invisalign, and other adult-oriented options that offer a discreet way to achieve a beautiful smile. The advantages of getting your teeth aligned as an adult are endless, and maybe, just maybe, learning about the life-changing abilities of Orthodontics will be the first change in your life!
The Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teenagers; adults can reap many benefits from a straighter, healthier smile. No matter why an adult needs an orthodontic treatment, whether it is for functional, cosmetic, or self-esteem reasons, orthodontic treatment for adults is an option for many people in and around Smyrna.
Here’s why you should consult an orthodontist in Smyrna, TN:
1. Improved Dental Health
Correcting your teeth also improves your oral hygiene, especially because straightening your teeth makes them much easier to maintain. This, in turn, reduces the risks of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
2. Better Bite Function
Correcting an overbite, underbite, or crossbite can enhance your ability to masticate food and speak. This reduces the stress on your teeth, gums, and jaw.
3. Enhanced Confidence
A straighter and more appealing face can lead to increased self-confidence. In social and professional environments alike, having positive beliefs about your appearance can affect your life.
4. Long-Term Cost Savings
Besides, fixing the teeth’s alignment early can help prevent costly problems later, like teeth that get ground down from eating and/or jaw pain.
5. Reduced Jaw Pain and Discomfort
Misaligned teeth often result in jaw strain and headaches. Aligning teeth helps relieve and reduce such discomfort.
6. Boosted Aesthetic Appeal
Orthodontics can improve your smile’s aesthetics, creating a balanced, beautiful look that best represents your oral health and overall fitness.
What to Expect from Adult Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment for adults differs from that for teens only in terms of the patient’s age, as reflected in the maturity of their teeth and gums. Once you decide to have braces or Invisalign fitted, the initial phase of the process involves consultation, where the condition of one’s teeth, gums, and dental needs is assessed. However, there are several options available to adults, depending on the level of dental concerns.
Conventional metal braces are a popular solution, especially for patients with higher case levels, as they are highly effective for tooth positioning. However, in cases where adults would like a discreet solution, such as clear braces or Invisalign, they are a perfect choice, as they are hardly noticeable, thus granting freedom, especially when eating or brushing their teeth.
How Braces and Invisalign Work
Although braces and Invisalign treatments are effective for straightening teeth, they use quite different approaches. The approach each of them takes can help an individual decide the one most suitable for them. Here’s how each of them works.
Braces: A Traditional Method for Teeth Movement
Braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets glued to the teeth. The teeth have wires and bands connecting them to achieve a desired position through gradual pressure.
Invisalign: The Clear Alternative
In Invisalign, a set of clear, specially designed dental appliances, also called aligners, is fitted over your teeth. These appliances work by gradually shifting your teeth, and a new set is worn every couple of weeks. Invisalign is highly invisible, which makes it highly favored by adults.
Adjustments and Monitoring
The good news is that with braces, the orthodontist periodically adjusts the braces to keep the teeth moving steadily with consistent tension. Also, when one chooses Invisalign, visits to the orthodontist to monitor tooth movement will be less frequent.
Treatment Time
The length of time your treatment will take, however, depends on the complexity of your situation, but the time required for the two options usually lies between 12 and 24 months. For Invisalign, the time might be shorter, depending on the nature of your concern.
Comfort and Maintenance
Additionally, braces require cleaning around the brackets and wires, whereas Invisalign can be removed for cleaning. There is some discomfort with both methods in the first few days, though this soon wears off.
Braces and Invisalign can both help you attain a beautiful, healthier smile; however, this depends on personal preferences and needs.
How Much Time Does Adult Orthodontics Require?
One major concern for most adults about pursuing orthodontic therapy is the time commitment required. This isn’t the only concern that comes with braces or aligners, though, since the exact length of time that will be needed differs depending on the individual patient’s needs.
On average, most adults will require 12-to-24-month therapy sessions, but the exciting news is that with advancements made in the field, you can count on positive changes appearing on your face in no time!
The adult teeth and gums are less likely to fluctuate than in younger patients. However, the key to getting the best possible outcome is to follow the orthodontist’s advice as closely as possible.
Take the First Step toward your New Smile
Orthodontics is no longer just for teenagers. Orthodontics is an investment in yourself that improves your smile, health, and confidence! As an adult living in Smyrna, Tennessee, you have so many opportunities to find a solution to give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of!
Change never has to come at the wrong time in your life. Working with the perfect Orthodontist can give you the results you want! No longer do you have to wait to begin your journey towards a brighter, newer, and improved version of yourself, so contact us at Smith Dental today to schedule a consultation that will show you the way towards adult orthodontics!
Questions People Ask About Adult Orthodontics
How long will it take to see results with adult orthodontics?
Results vary by individual, but many adults notice significant improvement in the first few months of treatment, with full results typically visible after 12 to 24 months.
Are clear braces or Invisalign effective for adults?
Yes, both clear braces and Invisalign are highly effective for adults, particularly for mild to moderate alignment issues. Your orthodontist will determine the best option based on your needs.
Do adults have more discomfort with braces?
Some adults may feel mild discomfort after initial adjustments, but this typically lessens over time. Modern orthodontic treatments like clear braces and Invisalign tend to offer more comfort.
Can I continue with my regular routine during treatment?
Yes, with some adjustments. You may need to slightly modify your diet and maintain excellent oral hygiene, but otherwise, you can continue your normal activities.
