Adult Treatment

We are frequently asked “Am I too old for braces?” The fact is that teeth can be aligned at any age. At Saini Orthodontics, we have treated patients from 4 to 92 years old!

Why Orthodontic Treatment for Adults?

Orthodontics aren’t just for children. Just about every practice around us in Howard County has been experiencing a surge in patients over 18 years of age. These adults are seeking not only improved smiles but also better longevity and function of their teeth as well as improved overall health and quality of life.

Many of our adult patients seek treatment because their teeth have shifted from optimal alignment, either because of the aging process or due to weakening of gum support. Many had braces in childhood but are experiencing a relapse. (They often blame themselves for not using their retainers. Recognizing this natural tendency, we at Saini Orthodontics have been using bonded (permanent) retainers in most cases since 1981 with wonderful, stable, long-term results.)

How is Adult Orthodontic Treatment Different from Childhood Orthodontics?

Adult orthodontic treatment provides several advantages but also comes with unique limitations. For example, there is no need to predict the final size of teeth or jaws in adults. However, objectives and steps of treatment must often be modified because there are no opportunities to modify jaw growth. Teeth also move slower due to the greater density of adult bones.

Even when challenges arise, we find that adult patients can still address their concerns and improve their smile with high quality orthodontic treatment.

Common Dental Problems in Adults that Orthodontists Can Fix

Every case is different and requires a customized treatment plan. Still there are many common dental problems that orthodontic treatments can address:

Overcrowding and irregular spacing of teeth
Open bite, deep bite, and protrusion
Underbite/Crossbite
Misaligned jaw
Periodontal issues
Chewing and speech issues
Improved self-confidence

Different Types of Orthodontic Appliances for Adults

All orthodontic treatments operate on the same basic principle: using a light, constant force to move your teeth into their proper alignment. Any type of braces can be used to achieve this in our adult patient population. Here are the most common options:

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces use small metal brackets that are attached to the front of your teeth. They have a thin metal wire that runs through the bracket and is held in place by plastic ties that come in different colors. Traditional metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than they used to be. Many adults choose them because of the speed of treatment.

Clear Braces

Clear braces work just like traditional metal braces. But instead of using metal, the brackets are made of clear plastic, ceramic, or a mixture of both. They are virtually invisible except for the thin wire that runs through them. These are great for people who want a less noticeable treatment option.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners like Invisalign are a removable set of clear plastic trays that are placed over your teeth. Each tray is part of a series designed to move your teeth a small amount at a time. These must be worn at least 22 hours a day to be effective and might not work for people with more extensive dental issues.