How Adult Orthodontics Can Best Help with Their Smile
Orthodontics is an effective way to achieve a more attractive and well-aligned smile, no matter your age. Adult orthodontics in Columbia can provide patients with improved confidence in their smiles, as well as improved functionality of the teeth and jaws.
What is Adult Orthodontics?
Adult orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting adult malocclusions, or “bad bites”. Orthodontists can use a variety of methods, such as braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic appliances to move adult teeth into the desired position.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
#1 – Improved aesthetics
Crooked teeth can affect people’s appearances and make them conscious of their smiles. Adult orthodontics can help to straighten teeth and achieve significant improvements in the aesthetics of a person’s smile.
When jaws are misaligned, they also affect the shape of the face. Through adult orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign, malocclusion issues can be corrected, giving adults a more balanced, symmetrical smile.
#2 – Better Oral Health
Crooked teeth or a bad bite can also make it difficult to clean the teeth properly and maintain healthy gums. Orthodontic treatment can create an aligned bite, which makes it easier to brush and floss. This can reduce the risk of bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
#3 – Better Functionality
Untreated adult malocclusions can cause several functional problems, including jaw pain and headaches. When you correct these issues with adult orthodontics, you can also experience improved functionality.
A correct bite can also aid in better digestion as food can be chewed more effectively. Additionally, adult orthodontics can help people to speak better and reduce the chances of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues.
Adult Orthodontics Treatments
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the traditional type of adult orthodontics treatment. They can be used to move adult teeth into a more desirable position and can also be adjusted as needed to ensure the best possible results.
It consists of metal brackets that are placed on the teeth and bound with wire. Your orthodontist will then adjust the wire over time to move your teeth into the desired position. Once treatment is completed, you’ll have a more attractive and aligned smile.
Clear Ceramic Braces
Clear ceramic braces are similar to metal braces but with a more discreet appearance. The brackets are made of clear material, making them less visible and more appealing to adult patients.
The process of treatment and adjustment is the same as metal braces, but with a more subtle outcome. This makes them a great choice for adult patients who are looking for a more discreet treatment option.
Invisalign or Clear Aligners
Invisalign is an adult orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners to move adult teeth into a more desirable position. It is the most discreet treatment option, as the aligners are nearly invisible when worn.
Treatment is different from braces since aligners are removable, so no adjustments are needed. The aligners are changed every two weeks until the desired result is achieved. You will visit the orthodontist every few weeks to ensure the treatment is progressing as planned.
Many patients opt for Invisalign since they don’t have to wear bulky brackets that irritate the lips and tongue. And because Invisalign is custom designed, the movement is precisely calculated to minimize the soreness of your teeth.
Also, there are no food restrictions with Invisalign, so adult patients can enjoy their favorite meals while in treatment. For special occasions and events, adult patients can even remove their aligners for a few hours.
How to Undergo Adult Orthodontics for Better Smile
First, adult patients should consult with an experienced orthodontist to determine the best treatment option for their particular needs. Your orthodontist will examine your teeth and take x-rays to understand the extent of the misalignment. Then, a customized adult orthodontic treatment plan can be created.
During the adult orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist may suggest additional treatments such as braces or Invisalign depending on your needs. After the adult orthodontic treatment is complete, you can enjoy a straighter, better-looking smile and improved oral health.
You will need to maintain good oral hygiene and follow a regular dental examination schedule. Wearing retainers is also essential to help maintain the results achieved by adult orthodontics.
Consult An Experienced and Trusted Orthodontist in South Carolina for Adult Orthodontics
Dr. Leslie Pitner is South Carolina’s #1 Invisalign orthodontist! If you want to improve your adult smile, Dr. Pitner can help you achieve the results you desire with adult orthodontics.
Dr. Pitner did not only complete an orthodontic certificate but also got a Masters’s Degree in Applied Positive Psychology. Why? Because once she started treating patients, she began to see how a new smile transforms lives. She decided to study the psychology behind each person’s smile.
Dr. Pitner also conducted research on the importance of a smile, writing, “Improve Your Smile, Transform Your Life: A Guide to Orthodontics for Adults.” So, if you want to experience a confident smile, no matter your age, get an orthodontic treatment that suits your needs.
Book a consultation with Dr. Leslie Pitner today and learn how adult orthodontics can best help you with your smile! Our 3 offices in SC are located in Columbia, Chapin, and Downtown Columbia. You can also contact us for more information or visit our website. We are excited to help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
