Am I Too Old For Braces?
Many people associate the term orthodontics almost exclusively with teens in traditional braces, even though treatment can actually benefit patients of all ages. While it’s true that teens are a large part of most orthodontic practices, we also work with a large number of children and adults. In fact, more adults than ever are exploring orthodontics as a way to straighten their smiles and correct issues they’ve struggled with for years!
Currently, about 1 in every 5 orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. If you’re an adult that has struggled with the way your smile looks or functions, there’s never been a better time to schedule a free consultation with Kaplan Orthodontics! Our expert team offers a variety of affordable treatment options to correct crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw positioning, and more.
To learn more about what orthodontics actually is and how it can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, keep reading below!
What is orthodontics?
If you picture dentistry as an umbrella, then orthodontics is a specialty that sits underneath it. An orthodontist is essentially a dentist who has also received several additional years of education and training in subjects such as:
- identifying and correcting bite abnormalities
- successfully straightening teeth
- correcting misaligned jaws
- and improving the overall function of the mouth.
An experienced orthodontist like Dr. Kaplan learns to successfully diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial abnormalities. If left untreated over time, these types of issues can eventually lead to premature wear and tear on the teeth, gum tissue, and bone. This can often result in pain to your face and neck area, headaches, and even difficulties with chewing or speaking. Orthodontists can diagnose and treat these problems, which can improve both the appearance and overall function of your smile.
Why are more adults choosing orthodontic treatment?
Everyone has their own personal reasons for considering orthodontic treatment. For many adults, this is linked to a better understanding of how oral health is linked to overall health. This knowledge often encourages them to seek out dental or orthodontic treatment that will allow them to keep their teeth and gums clean, healthy, and fully functional.
We also encounter many adult patients who received orthodontic treatment earlier in life that was never completed. They get in touch because they want to finish the process, or perhaps start it from scratch again. Touch-up treatment is extremely common, as well. Even when treatment is completed at a young age, the teeth can still shift over time due to age, genetics, or improper retainer use. In these cases, we have multiple ways to treat the patient, including monitoring the teeth, providing new retainers, or re-treating with braces or aligners.
Some adults have never had any treatment before, and are simply looking to improve the cosmetic appearance of their smile. Studies have shown that a more attractive smile can boost a patient’s confidence and self-esteem, and may even have a positive impact on their personal and professional lives.
Whatever your reason for exploring orthodontic treatment, we’re happy to walk you through all of the options we offer!
What treatment options are available for adult patients?
There’s never been a better time to be an orthodontic patient. Modern techniques and innovative technology have made it easier than ever to achieve a total smile makeover! Here at Kaplan Orthodontics, we offer the following treatment.
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are the most popular and recognizable orthodontic appliance, with a proven track record of efficiency. Braces can successfully treat cases that range from mild to complex, and have undergone quite a makeover in recent years! The brackets are made from high-quality stainless steel, and modern designs are more comfortable, effective, and aesthetically pleasing than ever before. The total treatment time is also quite a bit shorter than it used to be, although this will depend on your specific case.
Invisalign clear aligner therapy
Invisalign is an exciting alternative to braces that uses a series of clear aligners to straighten the teeth instead of brackets and bands. Teens and adults who are image-conscious love the freedom and flexibility that the removable aligners offer! These trays are made of a soft but strong thermoplastic resin, and are customized to fit snugly over your teeth. They need to be worn for 20-22 hours per day throughout treatment, and gently move the teeth into their optimal positions over time. Each aligner is replaced with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks depending on the treatment plan. This allows them to keep up with the shifting of your teeth.
Either of these options can be an excellent fit for a busy adult! When it comes to recommending the best treatment for your unique smile, Dr. Kaplan will always take your specific needs, lifestyle, and goals into account first.
The smile you’ve always wanted is waiting for you at Kaplan Orthodontics
Here at Kaplan Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing customized care and excellent customer service to all our patients. Every smile is special in its own way, and we know that what works for one patient may not be suitable for another.
That’s why you’ll never encounter any cookie-cutter treatment plans at our practice! Dr. Kaplan is an experienced orthodontist who will create a customized treatment plan for you based on your particular needs. Our goal is to provide you with a rewarding orthodontic experience and superior results that you’ll want to share with the world!
Dr. Kaplan has created more than 5,000 beautiful smiles for patients of all ages in Dunwoody and the surrounding communities, and would love to do the same for you. We have a talented team dedicated to serving our community’s orthodontic needs, and that begins with a free consultation with Dr. Kaplan. If you’d like to learn more about how orthodontics can improve your smile, get in touch today and we’ll be happy to get your started!