Orthodontics for Adults

Today, orthodontic treatment is a viable option for almost any adult. It is well recognized that when left untreated, many orthodontic problems may become worse. When you have a malocclusion (“bad bite”), your teeth may be crowded, excessively spaced or may not fit together correctly.  Such conditions may lead to dental health problems. Crowded teeth are hard to clean and, given time, may contribute to tooth decay, gum disease and even tooth loss. Bad bites can also result in abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces, difficulty chewing and damage to supporting bone and gum tissue. Poorly aligned teeth can contribute to pain in the jaw joints and TMJ symptoms.

You’ll be pleased to learn that orthodontic treatment will fit in with your current lifestyle – you can sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken. One in five orthodontic patients is an adult. It is estimated that more than 1,000,000 adults in the United States and Canada are receiving treatment.  

Can orthodontic treatment do for me what it does for children?

Yes.  Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children. Orthodontic forces move the teeth in the same way for both adults and children, but adult treatment may take longer due to the maturity of the bone. Complicating factors, such as lack of jaw growth, may create different treatment planning needs for the adult. 

I have painful jaw muscles and jaw joints - can an orthodontist help?

One of the problems commonly associated with jaw muscle and jaw joint discomfort is bruxing, that is, habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, particularly at night.  Bruxism is a muscle habit pattern that can cause severe wearing of the teeth, and overloading and trauma to the jaw joint structures. Chronically or acutely sore and painful jaw muscles may accompany the bruxing habit. The dentist may place a bite splint or nightguard appliance that can protect the teeth and help jaw muscles relax, substantially reducing the original pain symptoms. Sometimes structural damage can require additional treatment planning or restoration of damaged teeth. TMJ pains and symptoms are often related to this condition.

My teeth have been crooked for many years - why should I have orthodontic treatment now?

It’s never too late! Orthodontic treatment, when indicated, is a positive step—especially for adults who have endured a long-standing problem. Orthodontic treatment can restore good function.  And teeth that work better usually look better, too. A healthy, beautiful smile can improve self-esteem, no matter the age.

Are there any age limits?

No, there are no age limits! Orthodontic treatment goes slower when you are older, and it feels different. Still, people as old as 90 are getting braces. People who live to 90 know how important it is to take care of themselves, and orthodontic treatment is part of it.

Are There Health Advantages To Adult Orthodontic Treatment?

Yes. When your teeth are crooked, they are harder to clean and will wear unevenly. Your gums can get inflamed and your teeth hurt. Eventually, you will lose your teeth. Orthodontic treatment can inhibit gum problems and prevent tooth loss.

Also, remember that chewing is the first part of digestion. If you do not chew your food properly, the rest of you digestive system will have to work harder. The harder you digestive system works, the faster it ages. Orthodontic treatment can prevent premature aging of your digestive system.

It is also now widely know that the improper alignment of your teeth can lead to TMJ problems, problems that are now associated with migraines, snoring, headaches, sleep apnea, neck & shoulder pain, vertigo and many other nuero muscular conditions. Dr. Bakhtiyari can assist you in achieving not only the look you want for life, unlike veneers your natural teeth don't have a limited lifetime, she can help you by giving you a proper bite and jaw alignment all at the same time. The result are a spectacular smile and elimination in some cases of some other very bad malodies.