Tooth extraction Issues are common in adults. One or more missing teeth in most adults present a problem for the orthodontist. Old gap sites may not be suitable locations for teeth to move into, unless some type of restoration is done first – like adding sections of prosthetic bone to the site. Another difficult issue is closing gaps between the teeth, and keeping them closed. That’s because adult bone doesn’t respond to pressure in the same way as growing bone.

Appliance placement can present challenges to oral hygiene. Many orthodontic appliances are bonded to the teeth using dental cement, particularly for less visible options such as lingual braces. This makes it vital for the patient to maintain strict oral hygiene during the process, using products to help prevent decalcification.

Vulnerabilities are higher in adults. Adults have a higher risk for root resorption than children, rendering the tooth with a weakened anchor to the bone. Family history, oral habits and the type of roots are risk factors. The orthodontist can watch for signs of resorption, otherwise, the situation is untreatable if not caught early. Adult patients also have a greater risk for temporomandibular disorder (TMD), and symptoms can develop during conventional orthodontic treatment. The risk must be carefully assessed.

Psychological and social factors can affect adults interested in treatment. These are higher levels of treatment expectations, concern with appearance, discomfort from wearing appliances and the willingness to cooperate with orthodontic instructions. Adult patients are more demanding – the best results, the shortest amount of time, the lowest level of discomfort. They also want to know more about what the orthodontist is doing and why, and may look for more information about the cost breakdown of each portion of treatment.

Today, orthodontists are focusing their attention on the specifics of adult orthodontics as almost 50% of their cases are adults.

Seeing More Adults for Orthodontics in Bellevue

If you’re considering orthodontics for your unique situation, we invite you to see us at our Bellevue clinic and let us help you analyze the issues that may affect you and your treatment.

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Significant Differences That Impact Treatment

We know now that orthodontics is not just for children but also for adults. Due to advancements in the field of orthodontics in recent years, increasing numbers of adults are seeking treatment for their oral issues that they’ve had since their childhood. Are there significant differences between adult orthodontics and that of children and teens? Has it been more difficult to treat older dentition needing straightening than those of children? What does an adult have to consider before taking the plunge?

Here are the key differences between orthodontics for adults and for younger patients:

Age-related considerations may impact the success factor in adults. Adults seeking treatment may have conditions not found in younger patients. These can be insufficient bone between the roots giving rise to the problem of inadequate blood supply, mild gingivitis infections and marginal bone loss. Adult bones are harder than those of children and are no longer growing. Also, adult tissue is already aging and often causes these patients to take longer period of adjustment to their teeth’s new positions. These biomechanical limitations can make tooth realignment a more involved process in adults than in younger patients.

Bite correction concerns are more challenging in adults. A primary reason patients require orthodontic treatment is to correct a malocclusion or an improper bite. For example, an adult with a deep overbite usually may not have enough allowance to create space for the teeth to move back. It might be necessary to remove one or more teeth. Older patients might also have eroded teeth that can make the overbite worse. These are perio-restorative issues, so that the orthodontist is left focusing on making the patient’s bite functional rather than perfect.

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After Getting Braces

After five days to a week, any initial discomfort associated with the braces should be gone or much improved. The teeth will have gradually acclimated to the braces, and eating should be much easier. Certain hard foods may still pose a challenge to the wearer, but normal eating may be resumed at this point. Try to avoid any foods that might break your braces.

Regular orthodontic appointments are necessary for archwire changes, to change the elastic or metal ties around the braces, to make adjustments to the braces, and to monitor orthodontic treatment progress. Gentle activations may be applied during your regular adjustment visits. The first several days after an office adjustment or when you get a new wire may be slightly uncomfortable, but this will quickly fade.

Discomfort associated with braces can be inconvenient, but manageable. It’s normal to feel anxious about braces. Your orthodontist will offer tools and suggestions for easing any pain or discomfort in the days following having braces installed or adjusted.

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Alleviating Your Anxiety in Bellevue

When you are looking into getting braces, come to our dental office in Bellevue for some serious yet enlightening talk on this treatment. Rest assured we are with you every step of the way.