When most people think of braces and other treatments
associated with the orthodontist, they probably envision a young teenager.
Rarely will you think of an adult wearing braces - after all, isn’t it too late
to correct your smile when your teeth have been in place for years?
The answer is no, it’s not too late. Adults can benefit form
orthodontic treatments.
There are a number of reasons an adult may have waited to
undergo orthodontic treatment until adulthood. Their parents might not have
been able to pay for braces, or their teeth may have required technology that
was not around when they were a teenager. Whatever the reason, an increasing number of adults are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Adults who want to correct a crooked smile or bad bite
(malocclusion) have several options, including traditional braces. Modern
braces include a small metal wire that connects the fasteners on each tooth,
instead of the wide band that some adults may remember from their childhood.
These braces are less noticeable and easier to care for.
Adults may also choose to undergo orthodontic treatment
using Invisalign, a clear plastic aligner tray. The Invisalign system works
through the use of trays custom-made for your teeth that are worn throughout
the day and night. The trays are slightly adjusted at a set interval, slowly
moving your teeth.
Along with being virtually invisible, Invisalign trays are
low-maintenance. They need to be cleaned regularly and removed when you eat,
but there’s no wax or wires to care for like there may be with traditional
braces.
Additionally, patients with Invisalign can eat whatever they
want without the restrictions that come with regular braces, since the
Invisalign trays are removed when you eat.
Whether you decide to move forward with traditional braces
or treatment with the Invisalign system, Dr. Seth Newman, your Nassau County
orthodontist, will ensure that you have a healthy, straight smile. Call 516-626-2060
to schedule your professional consultation today!
