Adult Orthodontics Reading, MA

It’s Never Too Late to Have A Beautiful Smile

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, one in every four orthodontic patients is an adult. With today’s modern technology and techniques, you are no longer tethered to the traditional metal braces and plastic retainers — a fact that is encouraging more adults to seek treatment for misaligned teeth and other issues.

At Reading Orthodontics, we treat many adults and help them regain their oral health — and confidence — through a beautiful smile.

Why Should I Consider Braces as an Adult?

Adults are often motivated to consider orthodontics for a number of reasons, including:

• An upcoming event, such as a wedding
• Preparation for cosmetic dental work
• Dissatisfaction with the shape or spacing of teeth
• Problems or pain involving the bite or jaws

In addition, tooth misalignment can contribute to hygiene issues, problems with wearing down the enamel of teeth, difficulty speaking or eating, and a decline in overall oral health.

What is the Difference Between Adult and Child Orthodontics?

The main difference in treating adults and children is that children’s jawbones are still developing, and they are experiencing rapid tooth movement. Adults’ jawbones have stopped growing, which may require orthognathic surgery to realign the jawbones, where necessary.

In addition, adults are more likely to experience gum disease and related conditions, such as bone loss, due to crooked or misaligned teeth. Misalignment can also cause uneven wear and tear on tooth enamel, resulting in tooth loss. Missing teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, further distorting the bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.

Finally, some adults had braces as adolescents and either never finished their treatment or did not keep up with aftercare protocols, causing the teeth to shift out of alignment.

What Type of Braces Do Adults Get?

While metal braces are still used, they aren’t the only treatment options for adults. Today’s braces and appliances are comfortable, low-profile, and easy to get used to. Typical options include:

• Invisalign aligners
• Ceramic braces
• Traditional metal braces

Each type of braces has its pros and cons and your orthodontist will assess your smile challenges and goals to help you select the right appliance for your specific needs.

The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment as an Adult

It’s never too late to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile! Properly aligned teeth are easier to keep clean and can help prevent issues caused by poor dental hygiene. In fact, leaving your misaligned teeth untreated can actually contribute to health and dental problems down the line that can be dangerous — and costly.

Most importantly, however, a beautiful, straight smile builds confidence and self-esteem, providing a better quality of life. Start to love the way you look in the mirror — consider beautifying your smile with adult orthodontics.

At Reading Orthodontics, our adult patients receive an in-depth, personalized evaluation that takes into consideration not only the current state of your smile, but your long-term dental goals. By designing a customized care plan, we can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted, quickly and comfortably.

If you’re ready to step out into the world with a perfect new smile, contact our office at (781) 944-7970 for a consultation today!