No matter your age, everyone deserves the smile of their dreams. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, one in every three orthodontic patients is over 18. At River Falls Orthodontics, our talented Simpsonville orthodontist is here to help you navigate orthodontic treatment and achieve your best smile.
Adult Orthodontic Treatment Options
No matter the stage your smile is in, we have many different types of braces to make sure you get the smile you deserve. Orthodontic treatment can resolve a number of dental problems, including misalignment, bite issues, and crowded or crooked teeth. For adults, our expert orthodontist will tailor your treatment to your smile needs.
- Traditional metal braces: Traditional braces involve metal brackets and wires to successfully straighten your teeth. Rubber bands, called ligatures, are fixed within each bracket to hold the wire in place and gently move your teeth.
- Clear and ceramic braces: Clear and ceramic braces also use brackets, but they are made of a tooth-colored or clear ceramic material instead of metal. This type of braces is designed to be a discreet alternative to metal braces.
- Lingual braces: Lingual braces use the same technology as traditional metal braces, but they are placed on the backside of your teeth. Lingual braces give the illusion that you are not wearing braces, but they may require an adjustment period for patients due to their placement so close to the tongue.
- InvisalignⓇ treatment: Invisalign treatment straightens your smile with custom-made clear aligners. With Invisalign treatment, you will receive a series of clear aligners that you will change out as instructed by your orthodontist. Treatment with Invisalign clear aligners is typically shorter than with traditional braces.
How Long Does Adult Orthodontic Treatment Take?
On average, orthodontic treatment for adult patients takes anywhere from 18 months to two years. With any type of orthodontic treatment, your treatment timeline will be established by your orthodontist at your complimentary consultation. Your orthodontist will determine the best type of braces for your smile and the duration of treatment necessary to achieve your best results.
Differences Between Adult and Adolescent Orthodontic Treatment
We often get asked how adult orthodontic treatment is different, and it comes down to the differences between adult teeth and adolescent teeth. Adolescent mouths are still developing, so the tissues and bones are not yet set. Since adult mouths are finished growing, the bones and tissues are typically set in a more permanent position.
Since adolescent mouths are still developing, orthodontists may use other appliances, such as orthodontic expanders and Herbst appliances, to help shape a growing mouth. For adult orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will tailor your action plan specifically to you with one of our many effective treatment options.
Have More Questions About Adult Orthodontic Treatment? Call Today!
If you have questions about adult orthodontic treatment, or you’re looking to get started with an orthodontist near you, contact River Falls Orthodontics today! Our team is standing by to help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve.