As we get older, we often gain a greater understanding of how our body’s health is interconnected. For instance, learning more about the role our oral health plays in our total body health can result in a strong desire to care for our teeth and gums in a more comprehensive way. Part of that may include dental or orthodontic treatment to correct issues that have long been a problem, a trend that we’re seeing more of every day!
With 1 in every 5 patients currently over the age of 18, it’s clear that there’s never been a better time to explore how orthodontics can improve your oral health. Here at Sohn Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves a confident smile they can feel good about! If you’ve spent years feeling self-conscious about the way your teeth look or feel, it’s not too late to consider orthodontic treatment. There’s no age limit on achieving a healthy smile! Let’s take a closer look at how adult treatment works and how Dr. Sohn can correct crooked teeth, align the jaws, and much more.
Why are more adults choosing orthodontic treatment?
Like anything else in life, the reasons for choosing orthodontic treatment are personal and sometimes complicated. Some of the adult patients we see received orthodontic treatment earlier in life that was never completed. Others finished treatment but did not wear their retainers as directed afterward. Both natural aging and a lack of retainer use can cause previously straightened teeth to shift over the years. We often speak to adults who wish to complete the process that was begun when they were younger, or are interested in redoing their previous orthodontic treatment completely.
Other adults are interested in improving their smile cosmetically. Studies have shown that a straighter, more attractive smile can increase confidence and have a positive effect on a patient’s life! Whatever your personal reasons for looking into orthodontic treatment as an adult, there are more choices available to you than ever before.
Orthodontic treatment options for adult patients
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are one of our most efficient treatments, especially where severe or complicated cases are involved. Modern braces use high-quality stainless steel, but innovations in the design mean they’re much more comfortable than previous versions. The total treatment time also tends to be shorter than it used to be.
Clear braces
Also known as ceramic braces, these function in much the same way traditional braces do. However, they use clear ceramic brackets rather than metal ones. When paired with elastics or ties that are clear, white, or tooth-colored, patients can enjoy a nearly invisible treatment option! While clear braces can be an excellent choice for image-conscious patients, they do tend to be a bit more delicate than metal braces. For that reason, we generally only recommend them for older teens and adults.
Invisalign clear aligner therapy
The Invisalign system consists of removable aligners that are customized to fit comfortably over the teeth. These clear trays gently move the teeth into the desired positions over time, just like braces. This is accomplished by wearing them 20-22 hours per day throughout the course of treatment. They also need to be switched out for the next aligner in the system every 1-2 weeks to keep up with the movement of the teeth.
Because they’re removable, Invisalign offers patients an extra measure of freedom and flexibility. There are no food restrictions since aligners are removed when eating or drinking. They also make it easier to keep your teeth and gums healthy since you don’t have to brush and floss around any wires or brackets.
Get the smile you deserve at Sohn Orthodontics
Every treatment option comes with its own list of pros and cons, and no treatment is suitable for every patient. Working with an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Sohn guarantees you’ll only receive the most appropriate treatment for your case. Any of our options can be an excellent fit for your lifestyle, and you can trust Dr. Sohn to create a customized treatment plan that will give you the best results in the shortest amount of time possible!
Do you feel like you’ve been waiting a lifetime to get started on the smile you’ve always wanted? Don’t waste another minute thinking it’s too late to do anything about it now! Whether you’re 7 or 70, our talented team has the skills and experience to correct any orthodontic issues and bring out the best in your smile.
Our Bridgeville office is conveniently located close to many homes, offices, and schools in our area. No matter how busy your days may be, we make it easy to take the first steps towards the smile you’ve always wanted—and the one you deserve! If you’d like to learn more about how our adult treatment options can change your smile for the better, get in touch today to schedule a FREE consultation with Dr. Sohn. We’d love to meet you and tell you all about the exceptional care, innovative treatments, and beautiful smiles we offer adult patients in our community!