All
adults should consider if they are truly happy with the appearance of their
teeth.
Modern orthodontic treatment can allow any adult to spend the rest of their
life with a nicer smile, if they choose.
- Technological improvements
- Improved technology and materials produce
gentle forces and allow tooth corrections not possible in the past. Orthodontic
can be successful at any age. Presently, one in five orthodontic patients are
adults. The small "handles" needed to control
movement (brackets) are much smaller, improving esthetics. Titanium brackets
eliminate any possibility of metal allergy. Ceramic
brackets reflect the color of the underlying tooth, making them hard
to spot while efficiently guiding the teeth to improved positions
- .
- Headaches and facial pain
TMJ PROBLEMS
- Adults often seek orthodontic care for chronic
headaches and facial pain. A problem fit of the teeth may trigger clenching and
night time "bruxing", which is habitual grinding of the teeth, especially
when sleeping. This extra work of the muscles and teeth with heavy force,
results in increased tension in jaw muscles and wear on teeth. Increased
tension often causes more bruxing and the problem worsens over time.
By carefully positioning teeth to contact in unison and not "catch"
when side jaw movements are made, clenching and bruxing patterns are usually
improved. Jaw muscle tension lessens. Patients often experience great improvement,
although complete elimination of clenching patterns may require life style changes
as well.
- .
- Gum Problems
- Teeth can be moved at any age, but the structures
supporting the teeth must support the planned tooth movement. Gum problems are a complicating factor
for orthodontic treatment, and require
monitoring; by the family dentist or a periodontal specialist. Because tooth
alignment eliminates "hiding places" for bacteria, better long term
health of the teeth and gums; is possible. Tooth repositioning is often an aid
to gum treatment.
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- Our adults patients have told us:
- "As I get older, I notice every
part of my body changing, except my teeth. I'm going to straighten my teeth,
and a part of me will be young always." (A 64 year old patient,
starting treatment)
- "I'm glad its over, but I'm glad
I did it".
- "Its one of the best things I've
ever done for myself".
- "I wanted to keep my teeth for
always. Now my teeth are easier to take
care of, and they look so much better too."
- "My headaches are almost completely
gone. I don't grind my teeth like I used to. I feel much better. I had
been to so many doctors before, and not one could help me. Orthodontic treatment
worked for me."
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