In our modern society more and more emphasis is placed on looks and appearances. Constant exposure in the media along with greater health awareness has caused an increasing number of adults to seek orthodontic treatment.
These adults tend to fall into four main categories: Those that had braces in their teens and due to lack of retainer wear now have some crowding re-occurring; those that want to improve their smile because of their profession (actors, speakers, salesperson); those that have long neglected their smile and have now finally decided to do something about it; and finally, those referred by a dentist for orthodontic work prior to implants or other dental work.
Based on the severity of the case, several treatment options exist for the adult population. The majority of cases seen in our office are those that previously had braces and did not wear retainers. Most of the adults in this group do not want a second phase of braces and are just looking for some minor realignment. This group is ideally treated with Invisalign, which are clear aligners that are worn for a certain period of time to gradually align teeth back to the ideal position.
For the adults that never had braces and are now requiring orthodontic treatment, standard braces tend to be the ideal choice since greater movement is required and Invisalign is not always sufficient. Treatment in adults is usually more complex and lengthier than in kids because teeth move slower in adults and we are often dealing with missing teeth, some degree of periodontal disease, or a long-standing problem that has worsened over years of neglect. For these adults, we offer the latest in clear braces and wires if esthetics is of concern or if the profession demands it (actors, speakers, salesperson…). Treatments of this kind can last anywhere between few months to few years depending on the severity of the case and the patient’s concerns.
Sometimes orthognathic surgery is needed in adults if the severity of the malocclusion is too great or if correction of the profile is indicated. Life changing results can be achieved with orthognathic surgery and drastic improvements of one’s profile can be seen. This type of treatment always requires full braces and careful planning. They also require a team approach with the oral surgeon, the dentist, and the orthodontist.
Braces are no longer exclusive to teenagers. More and more adults are now taking advantage of the wonderful, life changing benefits of orthodontic treatment. With various treatment options available and clear, esthetic braces, there is no excuse not to see your orthodontist!
Dr. Reza Salmassian is a Diplomate of The American Board of Orthodontics and specializes in orthodontics for children and adults. For any questions regarding this article or to schedule your complimentary orthodontic evaluation, please contact Dr. Salmassian’s office at 661-222-7444. They are conveniently located at the Bridgeport Marketplace, 24001 Newhall Ranch Road, Suite 220 in Valencia.