What Orthodontic Treatments are Available for Adults?

If your jaw and teeth are healthy, you can have orthodontic treatment at any age. Orthodontia is not a matter of cosmetics, although orthodontic treatment may improve your appearance. The primary reason for orthodontia is to correct crooked teeth, resolve bite problems or realign the jaw. Crooked teeth can affect your ability to chew foods thoroughly and may wear unevenly, which causes pain in the jaw. Teeth that are badly crowded can prevent effective oral hygiene, leading to decay and gum disease. Orthodontia is very successful in adults, especially for crooked teeth. The treatments used for adults are very similar to those used for children: braces, retainers or other orthodontic appliances. One other treatment more likely to be used for adults is surgery to shorten or lengthen the jaw; although this is used in addition to orthodontia, oral surgery is not usually performed by an orthodontist.

Braces
Traditional braces are probably the most common orthodontic treatment for adults. Braces can correct spacing problems in teeth that are too crowded or too far apart, as well as straighten teeth that are crooked. Braces consist of metal anchors cemented to each tooth that are connected by metal wires or small rubber bands. The orthodontist gradually tightens the wires or adjusts the rubber bands to put tension on the teeth and move them into a different position. Once the braces are removed, you will usually need to wear a plastic retainer for about a year until the teeth are firmly settled into the new positions.

Other Options
Some adults prefer less noticeable orthodontia. One type of treatment consists of a clear plastic device that fits over the teeth. These are computer-generated from molds made of the teeth; each device is slightly different and forces the teeth into a new position. The device can be removed for eating or oral hygiene, but must be worn at least 22 hours a day to be effective. Every two to three weeks, you will receive a new device. The clear plastic makes this type of orthodontia much less noticeable, although it is often more expensive and does require more frequent visits to the orthodontist.

Complications
Adult orthodontia can be complicated by problems children don’t usually have, such as periodontal disease, badly worn teeth and abnormal jaw relationships. Periodontal disease is a deterioration of the gums and bone; it must be treated prior to orthodontia. Worn teeth must be built up or restored prior to orthodontia. An adult has a fully developed jaw, so orthodontia cannot correct abnormalities and surgery may be necessary. As with children, any dental decay must be treated prior to orthodontia.

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