Adult Orthodontics

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You are never too old to experience the benefits of orthodontic treatment! With advancements in technology, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment. In fact, more than 25% of our patients are adults. Here are some of the great advantages of having orthodontic treatment as an adult:

BEAUTIFUL SMILE
Orthodontic treatment can help to correct crooked teeth or spaces. No matter how big or small you may feel the problem is, if it is something that concerns you, we can discuss many treatment options from comprehensive treatment to short term orthodontic solutions. At Strickland Orthodontics, your treatment can be shorter, less noticeable and more comfortable than ever before!

MAINTAINED DENTAL HEALTH
Poorly aligned teeth can make it difficult to keep your teeth clean, which increases your chance of having tooth decay or gum disease. They can also cause accelerated wear on your natural teeth and cause them to not fit together properly. Orthodontic treatment will align your teeth and allow them to fit together better and make it easier to keep your teeth clean and healthy!

ACHIEVEMENT OF PROPER OCCLUSION
While achieving a beautiful smile is always a great benefit of your orthodontic care at Strickland Orthodontics, having the proper fit (or occlusion) of your teeth is just as important. Proper occlusion can provide you with lifelong health benefits for your mouth and body. People that have well-aligned teeth have fewer dental issues and are able to maintain their natural teeth longer. A beautiful smile that will last longer…now that is something to start smiling about!

WHY IS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT SUCH A BENEFICIAL OPTION FOR ADULTS?

  • Can help improve and even prevent periodontal (gum and bone) problems such as recession and bone loss
  • Greatly improves your dentist’s ability to replace missing teeth and allows you to have a healthier and more esthetic final result
  • Improves esthetics for a better smile and facial appearance
  • Improves self-esteem and confidence
  • Improves the fit and function of your teeth
  • Improves your oral health which has many benefits to your body’s health

WHAT ARE SOME QUESTIONS OUR PATIENTS USUALLY HAVE ABOUT TREATMENT BEFORE THEY BEGIN

IS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT EFFECTIVE FOR ME SINCE I AM AN ADULT?
Absolutely! We move teeth in adults the same way we move teeth in adolescent patients. Even though you are no longer growing, many orthodontic concerns can be corrected very easily and with minimal discomfort or disruption to your schedule.

HOW VISIBLE ARE BRACES?
Depending on which appliance best fits your needs, there are options that are less noticeable. Ceramic (clear) braces are barely noticeable at conversational distance and Invisalign is next-to-invisible! Even our titanium braces are much smaller, sleeker and a lot less noticeable than traditional braces.

I LIVE A VERY BUSY AND ACTIVE LIFE. HOW WILL ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT FIT INTO MY LIFESTYLE?
You can do almost anything during your orthodontic treatment – swimming, playing sports, playing instruments, or whatever else your day might bring! The braces are much smaller than they used to be, which allows you to quickly adjust to your treatment. Invisalign is a great option for this concern as it is the most comfortable and least noticeable treatment option available. Improvement in technology allows us to provide your care more efficiently and with fewer appointments, which decreases the interruption to your life while allowing you to enjoy your smile!

IS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT A GOOD FIT FOR ME?
During your initial consultation appointment, the doctor will review all of your concerns with you and discuss the best treatment options to address those concerns, which will help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. He will also discuss the different types of braces or aligners that you can select.

I HAVE SOME MISSING TEETH. CAN I STILL HAVE MY TEETH STRAIGHTENED AND BITE CORRECTED?
YES and YES! Orthodontic treatment can help establish the proper fit and placement of your remaining teeth. This will improve the final outcome and longevity of the investment you make in your dental restorations. Dr. Strickland will work closely with your dentist to ensure that the placement of your teeth is ideal for the crowns, bridges or implants that you are planning on having.

I HAVE BEEN TREATED FOR PERIODONTITIS (GUM DISEASE). CAN I STILL HAVE ORTHODONTIC CARE?
The doctor will consult with your dentist and/or periodontist to ensure that your gums are healthy. We will continue close monitoring of your gum health during your orthodontic care. Many patients have an improvement in gum health once their teeth are aligned.

DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT HURT?
There is an adjustment period that all patients will have for the first few days, but the advancements in technology allow for smaller braces and lighter tooth-moving forces, so this period of time becomes shorter and shorter. Another reason to SMILE!