Yes, orthodontic treatment for adults can achieve many of the same results as it does for children, including straighter teeth, improved bite alignment, and better overall oral health. Adults can successfully correct issues such as crooked teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and jaw misalignment with braces or clear aligners.
However, there are some differences in treatment for adults. Since an adult’s jaw has fully developed, certain structural changes, like significant bite corrections, may require additional interventions such as tooth extractions or surgery. Additionally, adult teeth may move more slowly compared to children’s teeth due to denser bone structure. Despite these factors, advancements in orthodontics make treatment highly effective at any age, offering adults both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Will my treatment take longer as an adult?
Yes, orthodontic treatment may take longer for adults compared to children or teenagers. Since an adult’s bones are fully developed and less adaptable than a child’s, teeth may move more slowly, which can extend the treatment timeline.
Other factors that may affect treatment length include the severity of misalignment, the type of orthodontic appliance used (braces vs. clear aligners), and the patient’s adherence to their orthodontist’s recommendations. Additionally, adults may have pre-existing dental conditions such as gum disease, worn teeth, or missing teeth that require extra care during treatment.
How long does it take to see results with braces for adults?
Adults typically start seeing results within a few months, but full treatment can take 18 months to 3 years, depending on the case. Factors like severity of misalignment, appliance type, and patient compliance affect the timeline.
How often do you need to see your orthodontist?
You typically need to see your orthodontist every 4 to 8 weeks. These visits are necessary for adjustments, such as tightening wires, replacing elastics, and ensuring teeth are shifting as planned. Regular check-ups help prevent delays and address any issues like broken brackets or discomfort.
For Invisalign or other clear aligner treatments, visits are typically scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks. During these appointments, the orthodontist checks progress, provides new aligner sets, and makes any necessary modifications to the treatment plan. Since Invisalign relies on patient compliance, these visits also ensure the trays are being worn correctly for optimal results.
Regardless of the treatment type, it’s important to keep up with these scheduled visits to maintain steady progress. Missing appointments or delaying adjustments can prolong treatment time. Patients should continue seeing their general dentist for routine cleanings and exams every six months to ensure overall oral health during orthodontic care.
Are adult orthodontics more expensive than treatment for kids?
Yes, adult orthodontic treatment is often more expensive than treatment for children. The cost difference is mainly due to the complexity of adult cases, longer treatment times, and additional procedures that may be required. Since an adult’s bones are fully developed, teeth may move more slowly, sometimes requiring extended treatment or specialized techniques to achieve the desired results.
Adults are also more likely to need preparatory dental work, such as gum disease treatment, extractions, or restorations like crowns and implants, which can add to the overall cost. Many adults opt for more discreet treatment options, such as clear braces or Invisalign, which tend to be more expensive than traditional metal braces.
Insurance coverage can also differ between adults and children. Many dental insurance plans offer full or partial orthodontic coverage for children but may have more limited benefits for adults.
Is it possible to undergo orthodontic treatment if I have existing dental restorations like crowns or implants?
Yes, it is possible to undergo orthodontic treatment even if you have dental restorations like crowns, bridges, or implants. However, treatment may require special planning, as restorations do not move like natural teeth.
Crowns and bridges can usually be accommodated in orthodontic treatment, but they may need to be adjusted or replaced if they interfere with tooth movement. Orthodontists can apply braces or clear aligners to crowned teeth, using special adhesives if needed.
Dental implants, on the other hand, are fixed in place and do not shift like natural teeth. If alignment adjustments are needed around an implant, the orthodontist may plan treatment to move surrounding teeth while leaving the implant in place.
