Many people may not realize that orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children and teens. At Cook Orthodontics, one in every three patients is an adult! This highlights that seeking orthodontic care as an adult is quite common, and it’s never too late to consider treatment.
Why Adults Seek Orthodontic Treatment in Augusta, ME
Adults seek orthodontic care for various reasons similar to those of children. Some had orthodontic issues during childhood but couldn’t address them until now. Others may need further treatment due to relapse or limitations from previous treatments.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment in numerous ways, including:
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Aligning teeth for a more attractive smile.
- Correcting Relapse: Addressing issues from previous treatments due to inconsistent retainer wear.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Facilitating better brushing and flossing, especially for crowded teeth.
- Bite Improvement: Creating a more comfortable bite and improving chewing ability.
- Addressing Missing Teeth: Providing solutions for gaps left by missing teeth.
- Closing Gaps: Eliminating spaces between teeth.
- Reducing Wear: Preventing excessive tooth wear from grinding or poor bite alignment.
- Jaw Surgery: Correcting discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws.
Appearance of Braces
Many adults are concerned with how braces look. Fortunately, there are discreet options available:
- Clear Aligners:Â Clear, removable aligners created using advanced 3D imaging technology.
- Clear Ceramic Braces: An alternative to metal braces for more severe issues, offering a less noticeable appearance.
Soreness and Discomfort
Orthodontic treatment causes similar discomfort levels in adults and children. Typically, teeth are most uncomfortable 12-24 hours after an adjustment, with soreness subsiding within 3 to 5 days.
Modern appliances are designed to be smaller and more comfortable, using new titanium technology that applies less pressure, moves teeth more efficiently, and reduces the time between adjustments to every 6-8 weeks. Treatment usually takes 15-18 months.
Cost of Treatment
The cost for adult orthodontic treatment is determined similarly to that for children and adolescents. Factors include the severity of the problem, the complexity of the correction, the appliances used, and the treatment duration.
Dr. Brian Cook has helped many individuals in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and even 80s achieve the smile they’ve always wanted. It’s never too late to improve your smile, and they are here to support you every step of the way.
