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Orthodontics & Braces for Adults

Adults are pursuing orthodontic treatment more than ever before. In fact, almost 25% of our patients are adults! We have multiple treatment options that will enable you to blend orthodontics seamlessly into your busy life.

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Benefits of Braces for Adults

Braces for adults have evolved beyond teenage orthodontics, becoming an increasingly popular solution for individuals seeking to maintain both their oral health and overall well-being. Beyond the cosmetic appeal, adult braces offer many benefits beyond achieving a straighter smile. Let’s explore the significant advantages of opting for braces as an adult.

Improved Teeth Function

One key benefit of adult braces is their ability to enhance teeth function. Properly aligned teeth enable individuals to bite and chew correctly, promoting effective digestion. It also prevents jaw pain and discomfort.

Restoration of Missing Teeth

Adults often face challenges related to missing teeth, whether due to natural causes, accidents, or dental issues. Braces provide an effective solution by aligning the remaining teeth and creating a suitable foundation for dental implants or other restorative procedures.

Enhanced Facial Appearance

Beyond the functional benefits, adult braces can significantly impact facial appearance. Properly aligned teeth contribute to a well-balanced facial structure. Braces reduce the appearance of asymmetry and create a more aesthetically pleasing profile.

Optimal Oral Health

Adults with misaligned teeth may face challenges in maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Common orthodontic issues, such as crooked or crowded teeth, can create spaces that are difficult to clean, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Braces help align teeth, making oral care more manageable and reducing the likelihood of dental issues.

Promotes Confidence and Self-Esteem

Having adult braces has a positive impact on confidence and self-esteem. A straight, well-aligned smile can boost self-confidence, encouraging individuals to smile more freely and engage socially without fearing judgment.

Common Dental Problems in Adults

Maintaining good oral health is very important for overall well-being. However, many adults face dental issues that can impact their daily lives. Understanding these common dental problems is essential for proactive care and prevention. Here are some prevalent dental concerns adults may encounter:

Jaw Pain

Jaw pain can be caused by various underlying factors, including issues associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), teeth grinding (bruxism), or misaligned teeth. Chronic jaw pain can impact daily activities such as eating and talking, highlighting the importance of seeking professional evaluation and treatment, which may include TMJ treatment options.

Tooth Wearing or Decay

Tooth wear or decay can occur due to poor oral health and hygiene, a diet high in sugars and acids, or teeth grinding.These issues can lead to cavities, infections, and eventual tooth loss if not treated. Regular dental check-ups and oral care prevent and address these problems.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. It is a condition that impacts on the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It can go from mild gingivitis to more severe forms, leading to tooth loss. Early detection and good oral hygiene practices, including regular dental cleanings, are vital for preventing and managing gum disease.

When Should Adults Get Braces?

Adults should consider getting braces if they experience misalignment issues such as crowding, spacing, or irregularities in teeth positioning. Conditions like overbites, underbites, protruding teeth, or open bites can be effectively addressed with braces, improving oral health and aesthetics. Jaw pain, discomfort, TMJ symptoms, speech impediments, and challenges in cleaning teeth due to misalignment are additional indicators for considering orthodontic treatment. In detail:

Overcrowding

Overcrowding is the condition of insufficient space for teeth to align correctly within the jaw. It can lead to misalignment, overlapping, and difficulties in cleaning between teeth, making individuals more prone to cavities and gum disease. So, the optimal solution to overcrowding is the braces.

Overbite

An overbite is characterized by upper front teeth extending too far over the lower front teeth. This condition can lead to wear on the lower teeth, jaw pain, and sometimes even speech difficulties. That’s why braces are essential to address overbites early to prevent long-term complications.

Underbite

In contrast to an overbite, an underbite occurs when the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth. This misalignment can result in difficulties with biting and chewing, causing strain on the jaw joints and discomfort. So that, braces are often recommended to correct an underbite and restore proper alignment.

Protruding Teeth

Protruding teeth, commonly known as buck teeth, can affect appearance and function. Individuals with protruding teeth are more susceptible to injuries. Also, the misalignment can contribute to speech impediments. Orthodontic intervention is often necessary to correct this issue. Therefore, braces and orthodontic intervention is often necessary to correct this issue.

Open Bite

An open bite is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. This condition can lead to difficulty biting and chewing food, affecting proper nutrition. Open bites may result from thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits and require braces or orthodontic treatment.

Complete Procedure for Adult Braces

Adult braces have become increasingly popular, offering effective solutions to correct misalignments and improve oral health. Here are the procedures to straighten your teeth and achieve a confident and beautiful smile:

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Initial Consultation

The journey to a confident smile starts by scheduling a consultation with an orthodontist specializing in adult braces. In this stage, your orthodontist will examine your teeth and discuss treatment options. Also, take X-rays and impressions to create a personalized plan based on your needs and preferences.

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Treatment Plan and Customization

Once the initial inspection is complete, the orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan to fulfill your requirements. This plan outlines the duration of treatment, adjustments, and the expected outcome.

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Brace Placement

Depending on the type of braces you’ve chosen, the orthodontist will proceed with the placement process. It involves attaching brackets to your teeth or fitting clear aligners. The procedure is painless, but discomfort or pressure may be felt during adjustment.

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Regular Adjustments and Check-ups

During these visits, the orthodontist will make any necessary modifications to your braces to provide optimal alignment. You can also contact your orthodontist if you experience issues or discomfort between appointments. They will provide guidance or schedule an unscheduled visit if needed.

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Completion of Treatment

Once the desired alignment is achieved, the orthodontist will carefully remove the braces. To prevent deterioration, you may advised to wear a retainer for a specified period. The retainer helps maintain the newly aligned teeth while the surrounding tissues adjust.

Result Of Adults’ Braces: Before And After

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After

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How long will I have to wear Braces or Invisalign aligners?

The type of treatment prescribed to fully correct the dental problems will determine treatment time. Our treatments are fully customized to each patient. Each patient reacts to treatments differently, so while it may take one patient only 12 months to complete their treatment, it may take another patient 24 months. Treatment times can vary depending on how quickly your body responds. It also depends on how much work is needed to make your smile look as amazing as you want.

A patient’s cooperation is absolutely essential as they play a major role in the length of treatment time. Always remember to take care of your appliances and follow our instructions; this will truly help shorten your treatment time!

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Why Differences in Braces Treatment Approaches for Adults, Teens and Kids

Growth

The main difference between treating adults and children or teens is that the jaw bones of younger patients are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing and may require orthognathic (jaw) surgery to correct the position of the jaws.

Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease)

Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease.

Compliance and Responsibility

Another significant factor influencing the approach to braces treatment is the level of compliance and responsibility associated with different age groups. For instance, kids and teens may require more active supervision and monitoring when using braces for kids compared to adults.

Treatment Duration and Goals

The duration of orthodontic treatment and the ultimate goals vary among adults, teens, and kids. Adults fix bites or look concerned with fully grown jaws. Teens get braces during growth spurts for jaw and face development.

Why should you consider adult braces?

Adults should consider braces for various reasons, including correcting misalignments, enhancing bite functionality, and preventing future dental issues. Modern treatment options, such as discreet clear aligners, make orthodontic care more appealing for adults. Moreover:

A beautiful smile builds confidence

Orthodontic treatment can help boost your self-confidence, giving you a better quality of life and the freedom to smile without holding back!

Straight teeth are healthy teeth

Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to keep clean with flossing and brushing and may help prevent other health problems.

FAQs

Are Braces for Adults Effective?

Yes! Braces for adults are highly effective in correcting misaligned teeth, bite issues, and jaw problems. Advances in orthodontic technology make it easier for adults to achieve a straight, healthy smile with options like clear aligners, ceramic braces, and traditional metal braces.

How Long Do You Have to Wear Braces?

The length of orthodontic treatment varies based on the complexity of the case. On average, adults wear braces between 18 months and 3 years to achieve optimal results. Following your orthodontist’s instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene can help ensure timely progress.

What Are the Common Reasons for Needing Braces as an Adult?

Adults may need braces for several reasons, including correcting misaligned teeth, closing gaps, fixing overcrowding, and improving bite issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite. Other reasons for needing braces include enhancing facial aesthetics and addressing jaw pain caused by misalignment.

What Can I Expect from Adult Braces Before and After Treatment?

The difference in adult braces before and after treatment can be significant. Before treatment, many adults experience misaligned teeth, spacing issues, or bite problems. After braces, teeth are straighter, the bite is corrected, and overall dental health improves, leading to a more confident smile.

Can Braces Fix Protruding Teeth?

Yes! Braces are highly effective at correcting protruding teeth before and after braces treatment. Orthodontic adjustments gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment, improving both function and appearance. Severe cases may require additional orthodontic appliances or minor dental procedures for the best results.

What Are the Different Types of Braces Available for Adults?

Adults have several options when it comes to braces. Traditional metal braces are still a popular choice due to their effectiveness, but there are also more discreet options available. Invisalign aligners and clear ceramic braces are virtually invisible, making them great alternatives for those who want a more subtle treatment.

Can Adults Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment?

Absolutely! Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, and many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children.

How Does Invisalign Work to Straighten Teeth?

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth using a series of custom-made, clear aligners. These aligners are removable, allowing for easier eating and hygiene, and are less noticeable compared to traditional braces. Patients must wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily for optimal results.

TRANSFORM YOUR SMILE

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To set up a visit with our orthodontists at Mellion Orthodontics, complete and submit this form. Our scheduling coordinator will then contact you to confirm your consultation.

Schedule a Visit

Please note this form is for requesting an appointment. If you need to cancel or reschedule an existing appointment, or if you require immediate attention, please contact our practice directly by calling us.

Office Locations

Consultations are available at our three conveniently located orthodontic offices.

Massillon

3235 Wales Ave NW
Massillon, Ohio 44646
(330) 833-3335

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Uniontown

3451 Edison St NW
Uniontown, Ohio 44685
(330) 699-6369

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North Canton

6304A Market Ave. N.
Canton, OH 44721
(234) 714-8100

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