Adult Treatment
We're seeing more and more adult orthodontic patients these days, and it's not hard to figure out why. Appliances that are barely noticeable have been developed to give adults more discreet choices when it comes to orthodontic treatment. And many adults realize that investing in a smile makeover can have significant benefits, socially and professionally. Straightening teeth can be an important part of that confidence-boosting makeover process.
Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, so there's no such thing as being too old for braces. However, orthodontic treatment for adults is different in two important respects: For one thing, the growth and development of the jaws is complete in adults, so changes in actual jaw structure can't be accomplished with orthodontic appliances in the way they can with a growing child.
Secondly, periodontal (gum) disease is more prevalent in adults than in children. While you are wearing the orthodontic appliances, gentle forces will be applied to your teeth so they can move through their surrounding bone. Periodontal health plays a key role in all of this; if the gum tissues are not healthy during orthodontics, bone loss can result and weaken the long-term prognosis of your teeth. So any gum disease must be brought under control before orthodontic treatment begins. And to maintain your periodontal health, you will need to make sure to have regular professional cleanings during the orthodontics while maintaining good oral hygiene at home.
Types of Orthodontic Appliances
All orthodontic appliances work essentially the same way: by employing light, constant force to move teeth into proper alignment. But how we apply these forces can vary, as numerous innovations have become available in recent years. Some of the newer, less visible orthodontic appliances have been designed to blend more easily into an adult's personal and professional lifestyle. Types of orthodontic appliances include:
Traditional Metal Braces
This is probably what you think of when you picture someone wearing braces: small metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth. A thin wire runs through the brackets and is attached on either end to metal bands that go around a back molar.
Clear Braces
Instead of highly noticeable metal brackets, you can have clear ones made of ceramic, plastic or a combination of both. They are hardly visible, except for the thin wire running through, but they are more susceptible to breakage than metal braces.
Clear Aligners
As an alternative to the fixed type of orthodontic appliances mentioned above, clear aligners are removable. They are actually a series of clear plastic "trays" that fit over your teeth exactly. Each tray is part of a series of trays that move your teeth a little bit at a time until they are in the proper position. Your trays are designed with the help of specialized computer software that generates a virtual model of your bite.
Adult Treatment Reviews
Last March the decision was made to get braces as an adult. My evaluation/introduction meeting went so much better than I expected. Dr. Mack listened to me, applied thoughtful consideration, and developed a compromise from what I wanted to what would work best for me for the best possible outcome. I really feel that Dr. Mack was genuinely looking out for my best interest, even if I didn’t know exactly what that was. I trusted him wholeheartedly. The day my braces were placed on, could have been awkward for an adult but the entire staff treated me like a person, not an older person, just a person. Every step of the process from pictures to the application I was well informed and no surprises. Next is the continuing care, each appointment I am never left waiting in the waiting room. I typically schedule my appointments in the Eldridge office and always have found a time that works for me. During the my visits, the staff is very professional and friendly. They seem to genuinely care about me not just as a patient but as a person. I have had to phone into the office for follow up questions, and everyone is able to help me, I am not kept on hold and my questions were answered quickly, patiently, and professionally, never rushed. I am almost through my time with Dr. Mack but I certainly would recommend him and his staff in the event you need Orthodontic care. Never once have I felt like just a number, I have always felt like a welcomed and valued patient. My experience was one that was very positive and if I had to do it again, I would chose Mack Orthodontics, Dr. Mack, and his staff all over again!
First experience at Mack Orthodontics was great! From the moment we walked into the door we were greeted with a warm welcome and a smiling face. Dr Mack himself is amazing and answered all of our questions. Definitely recommend this office to anyone looking for a beautiful smile.
Dr. Mack and his entire team are absolutely incredible! My son got his expander earlier this year and recently just got his braces. From the first consultation, Dr. Mack has been wonderful to work with - he is always so kind and informs us of what the next steps are so we know what to expect. He even checked in on my son the day after he got his braces to make sure he was doing well! Everyone in the office is so pleasant to work with. Mack Orthodontics is hands down the best ortho office in the QC!
Great experience at Mack Orthodontics! I felt like the team listened to and addressed my concerns, and explained things well. I am so happy with how my smile looks and how much better my bite feels. Highly recommend.
Dr. Mack is one of a kind! He cares about his patients and makes sure everything is going well with your braces.His crew are just as friendly and concerned on how your progress is coming.If and when you need braces, Mack Orthodontics is a phenomenal place to get your teeth straightened!!!
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After Treatment
Wearing a retainer after orthodontic treatment is crucial, no matter which type of appliance you choose and what age you happen to be. Teeth that are not held in place by a retainer long enough for new supporting bone to develop around them can drift back to their original positions, and that's certainly not something we — or you — want to see happen. We will make sure to instruct you on how to retain your new, more beautiful smile so that it continues to make you look and feel great for years to come.
