There is no right or wrong time to get orthodontic treatment. Although children and adolescents are most often thought of as ideal orthodontic patients, an increasing number of adults are seeking orthodontic treatment – particularly with the advent of esthetic and brace-free options for treatment.

Thanks to a greater selection of advanced treatment options, more adults than ever are seeking orthodontic treatment. In fact, an estimated 1 in 5 patients who visit the orthodontist are over age 18. Whether your problems are crowded teeth, preparation for restorative treatment, bite problems, or you simply want the beautiful smile – adult orthodontics might be for you.

Perhaps you never had braces as a child and would like to feel more confident in the appearance of your smile. Maybe you once had braces but failed to wear your retainer as prescribed, allowing your teeth to relapse. Whatever your past experience with braces may have been, treatment is available to transform the look of your teeth into the beautiful smile you envision.

Some common Indications for Adult Braces

Aside from the cosmetic benefits, better tooth alignment provides tremendous oral health benefits. When teeth are not aligned properly, plaque and tartar can accumulate, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, a poorly aligned bite can cause abnormal wear of the teeth, put strain on the jaw and facial muscles, or cause headaches and difficulty chewing and speaking.

How Adult Orthodontics are Different

Although adults are often great candidates for orthodontic treatment, adult orthodontic treatment planning is different than that of an adolescent. Dr. Schatz takes great consideration in treatment planning for his adult patients. Often, adults are more concerned than adolescents about the esthetics of the treatment plan. They are also more concerned with the impact of orthodontic treatment in their daily life. Dr. Schatz customizes each treatment plan considering each patient’s lifestyle and dental concerns.
For many adult orthodontic treatment plans, Invisalign provides a discreet and versatile alternative. Invisalign is a system of computer designed clear trays custom fit to guide your teeth through its transition to better alignment and function. The trays are nearly invisible, and they can be removed while eating or brushing the teeth.

In addition to traditional metal braces and Invisalign, there are other treatment options that may be more appropriate for adults depending on their needs, aesthetic concerns, and goals for treatment. Clear ceramic braces offer a more discreet appearance with the ability to correct more complicated crowding and bite issues.

Orthodontic Treatment for Adults in San Antonio

We understand that deciding on orthodontic treatment at any age is a big decision. At Schatz Orthodontics, we strive to make your decision as easy as possible. One quick visit is all it takes to find out if a straighter, healthier smile could be in your future. If you live in or around the San Antonio area, schedule a free examination with Schatz Orthodontics for more information and to find out which types of treatments could be right for you.

Source: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/adult-orthodontics/article/why-dental-braces-for-adults-arent-so-bad-0414