Orthodontics for Adult

At Catawba Valley Dental Care we feel children should be treated idealistically and adults realistically. During adolescence is a good time to fix not only the teeth but any facial or jaw discrepancies; this often requires brackets and wires. However, adults often have specific goals in mind and may prefer to undergo treatment that is more aesthetic, like Invisalign®.

Most often, our Charlotte dental patients consider orthodontic treatment because they have:

• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly
• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart, possibly leading to tooth decay or gum disease
• Abnormal jaw pain or pressure that is caused by crooked teeth
• A desire for a healthier mouth and a more confident smile

Orthodontics for Adults vs. Orthodontics for Children

The main difference between treating adults and children or teens is that the jawbones of younger patients are still developing as well as teeth that are still erupting. Other differences include:

• Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease because straight teeth are easier to keep clean.
• Worn or missing teeth — Over time teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.
• Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen — Many adults received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but never completed their treatment. As an adult, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.