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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