Here at Lake Jackson Orthodontics, we’re proud to create beautiful smiles for the whole family. We know that patients of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment, including adults. If you’ve always associated orthodontics with teens in braces, you may be surprised to learn that there’s no age limit for achieving a healthier smile!
The number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment has actually skyrocketed in recent years, with more than 25% of current orthodontic patients over the age of 18. Yet we still hear from adults every day who worry that the chance to transform their smile has passed them by.
Do you find the idea of straighter teeth and improved oral health appealing but aren’t sure about wearing braces? Has it become increasingly difficult to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as they should be, but you aren’t sure how to fix this problem? We’re here to help! We believe everyone deserves a beautiful smile, so let’s take a closer look at what adult orthodontic treatment entails.
What’s behind the increase in adult orthodontic patients?
There are many reasons why we’re seeing more adult patients than ever before. It can be easy to overlook the important connection between oral health and our overall health in our younger years. As we get older, we often become more aware of that link and seek specialized dental or orthodontic care to keep our teeth and gums healthy. This can have a positive impact on not only our smiles but our bodies, too!
We see some adults who began the orthodontic process but never completed it. Others may have finished their treatment but didn’t wear their retainer as directed afterward, so their teeth have shifted back to their original positions. Previous orthodontic patients sometimes want to complete the interrupted orthodontic process, while others may need to start from scratch for the best results.
Then there are the adults simply looking to achieve the straighter smile they’ve always wanted! This can boost self-confidence and positively affect a patient’s personal, social, and professional life. Whatever your reasons for exploring orthodontic treatment, we’ve got a variety of affordable options to give you a smile you can be proud of!
Your first appointment with us
We pack a lot into your first visit with our talented team! During this complimentary consultation, we’ll get to know a bit about each other and discuss any concerns you have about your oral health. We’ll also:
- review your dental and medical history forms
- perform a thorough oral examination
- go over the results of this exam with you
- create a customized treatment plan for you
- discuss the investment required for your new smile
- outline your insurance options and any payment plans available to you
Once you’ve decided on a treatment plan with Dr. McGrory, we’ll walk you through everything included in the orthodontic process. This will include the investment needed for your new smile and any payment options available to you. We’ll ensure you understand exactly what your customized plan includes before you begin, so you never have to worry about any hidden fees!
What orthodontic treatments are recommended for adults?
We use cutting-edge technology and the latest techniques to offer adult patients a variety of comfortable and effective treatments. These include the following options.
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are the most widely used orthodontic appliance. They have a proven track record of successfully treating a range of orthodontic issues and are especially useful for severe or complex cases. While they’ve been around for a long time, metal braces have undergone some significant changes in recent years! Today’s braces are lighter, sleeker, and more comfortable than any previous models. Patients can also add a fun pop of personality with brightly colored elastics or choose clear bands for a more subtle option.
Clear braces
Clear braces function the same way metal braces do but come with the added benefit of clear brackets. This gives patients an extremely discreet way to straighten their teeth, especially when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored elastics! The ceramic brackets are slightly larger and a bit more brittle than metal ones, so we tend to use them on the upper front teeth more often than the lower ones. Because clear braces are much less visible than metal brackets, they’re a popular choice with our teen and adult patients.
Invisalign® clear aligners
Instead of brackets, wires, and bands, the innovative Invisalign system uses a series of customized clear aligners to shift the teeth over time. The aligners are designed to be removed when patients eat, drink anything other than water, and brush their teeth. This gives them an extra measure of flexibility that our adult patients love!
Patient compliance is an essential part of treatment with Invisalign. Throughout the orthodontic process, aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours per day to straighten smiles successfully. Patients are also responsible for switching each aligner out with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks. This allows them to keep up with the movements their teeth are making. When worn as directed, Invisalign can be just as efficient as braces at treating many of the most common orthodontic issues.
Like most things in life, each treatment option will have its pros and cons. Your smile is as unique as you are, and not every treatment will be suitable for all patients. Working with an experienced orthodontist like Dr. McGrory guarantees you’ll receive only the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.
Get the smile you’ve always wanted with Lake Jackson Orthodontics
If you’ve been waiting for what feels like a lifetime to straighten your smile, the last thing you want is a cookie-cutter approach to treatment! At Lake Jackson Orthodontics, you’ll receive personalized care and a treatment plan based on what’s best for your smile. Get in touch with us today to schedule your FREE consultation and take the first step towards the confident smile you deserve!