Adult Orthodontics – Marlborough, MA
Even Older Smiles Can Be Straightened
Despite what many people think, it’s not “too late” to receive orthodontic treatment if you’re already an adult. Of course, parents with day jobs or younger adults who have recently graduated from college may have misgivings about wearing distracting metal braces, but thanks to the advancements that orthodontists have made over the years, there are plenty of image-friendly, comfortable ways to correct crooked teeth. Call Simply Orthodontics Marlborough today to schedule an appointment and learn how you can straighten your smile and reduce your dental problems with adult orthodontics in Marlborough, MA!
How is Adult Orthodontic Treatment Different?
On the surface, the actual process of shifting teeth is the same for adults as it is for children and teenagers. However, because an adult’s mouth is no longer growing, it takes a little longer to make the necessary changes. Also, any factors that have affected your oral health over the years – such as smoking, teeth grinding, advanced gum disease, underlying endodontic issues, and the use of certain medications – could also have an impact on the success of your orthodontic treatment. If you already have a crown or another restoration, it may still be possible to use braces or Invisalign.
What Are My Orthodontic Options?
Obviously, pediatric orthodontic treatments – which are meant to guide the development of growing teeth – are not suitable for adults. Other than that, though, older patients can benefit from any kind of orthodontic treatment. This includes traditional braces, of course (which are normally recommended due to their effectiveness), but you can explore other options depending on your needs. For example, you can get self-ligating braces to enjoy a more comfortable process, or you might prefer clear/ceramic braces for their aesthetic advantages. You might even be able to get convenient removable Invisalign clear aligners if only mild to moderate changes are required. Visit our orthodontic office so that we can discuss your choices in detail.
What Happens After I Begin Treatment?
Once your orthodontic appliance has been placed, we’ll give you instructions for taking care of it; no treatment is foolproof, and you’ll need to be able to perform proper maintenance if you want to avoid unnecessary emergencies. Be sure to practice proper oral hygiene every day and choose foods that won’t disrupt your treatment. We’ll occasionally need to check your progress and (in the case of traditional orthodontic treatment) tighten your braces, which is why we’ll call you in for an appointment every one to two months.
