It is just as important for adults as it is for children to have correctly positioned teeth and proper jaw alignment. Crooked, abnormally spaced, or crowded teeth, or an improperly aligned bite not only affect self-esteem, but they can also contribute to serious health conditions.

Today, it is common for adults to undergo orthodontic treatment. In fact, advancements in treatment options now allow for more effective, faster results, whether using traditional braces or Invisalign clear aligners.

Why is Adult Orthodontic Treatment Important?

A beautiful smile improves confidence, and sends positive signals to others in social and professional situations. Feeling attractive can enhance a person’s quality of life.

When teeth are straight and properly aligned, they are easier to clean, decreasing the risk of periodontal disease. Malocclusion is an improperly aligned bite, and may contribute to a variety of issues, including:

• Jaw pain, headaches, migraines
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
• Tooth decay, gum disease
• Difficulty chewing
• Abnormal wearing down of tooth enamel
• Speech problems
• Sleep apnea
• Cosmetic dissatisfaction

Options for Adult Orthodontics

Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign creates clear, custom aligners using 3-D scans and digital mapping provided by a licensed orthodontist, and a patented thermoplastic material that maintains its shape. This proprietary technology produces the highest quality product which effectively treats almost any dental issue.

The process often works faster than traditional wire braces, is more aesthetically pleasing, and more comfortable. While the trays need to be worn 20 hours a day for optimal results, patients can remove them for eating, brushing, and flossing.

Conventional metal or ceramic braces

Metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than they once were, and may be the best option for certain orthodontic issues. Ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces, as the brackets are made from a tooth-colored composite rather than metal.

Because patients cannot remove metal or ceramic braces for eating or cleaning teeth, it is essential they commit to good oral hygiene to avoid development of cavities or other dental problems.

Considerations

Both Invisalign clear aligners and traditional braces are excellent choices for adult orthodontics, with some key differences to consider.

To many, the most important difference is one of aesthetics. Invisalign aligners are clear, and not as noticeable as wire braces.

Invisalign aligners may provide faster results than traditional braces. When worn for the recommended 20 hours per day, Invisalign patients typically achieve their desired results in six to eighteen months. Traditional braces may need to be worn for one and a half to three years.

Another key consideration is the required number of office visits. Invisalign patients may visit their orthodontist every ten to sixteen weeks, as opposed to every three to four weeks for patients with wire or ceramic braces.

Patients need to be honest with themselves. Will they faithfully wear Invisalign aligners for the required daily hours? If not, traditional braces that cannot be removed may be a better choice.

Angeloni Orthodontics is a proud member of the beautiful Winter Park community! Our office prides itself on nurturing close, personal relationships with our patients while providing services–like Invisalign–to create stunning smiles. Make an appointment with Dr. Angeloni today!