Issaquah Adult Orthodontics

Clear aligner therapy offers a fantastic alternative to traditional metal braces for adults. These removable trays, resembling clear retainers, provide a discreet way to straighten teeth. Clear aligner treatment is a great choice for patients willing to wear removable trays 22 hours per day.

Clear aligner treatment is a recent approach to orthodontic care available through both orthodontists and dentists (DDS).

Providers using the Invisalign system are known as Invisalign providers. These professionals undergo specialized training to understand how the Invisalign platform works. Their usage of the product determines their tier, with higher tiers reflecting more extensive experience.

For example, a VIP Diamond+ 1% Invisalign Provider has managed a large number of cases. It's important to remember that the tier ranking doesn't always reflect the skill or expertise of the Invisalign provider. The ranking may not give a complete picture of their abilities. Always consider other factors when choosing a provider.

Many aligner systems are now available on the market. These include Spark aligners, uLab aligners, Angel aligners, Suresmile aligners, and 3M Clarity aligners, among others. Advances in orthodontics have made clear aligners an excellent choice, especially for adults, as an alternative to traditional braces. The success of clear aligner treatment depends more on the provider's skill and knowledge than on the brand of aligners used. Most aligner systems offer similar results.

Lingual braces, or braces placed behind the teeth, are the best choice for a cosmetic orthodontic solution. They are completely invisible. Only a few orthodontists offer this specialized appliance because it is technically challenging to use.

Lingual braces are significantly more efficient at moving teeth compared to other esthetic options, such as Invisalign treatment. Depending on the complexity of the orthodontic case, adult patients may choose between aligner treatment or lingual braces. Additionally, the desire to overcome challenges associated with aligner orthodontic treatment may lead some adult patients to opt for lingual braces over Invisalign.

Clear ceramic braces provide a third choice for adult patients. This option is for those who do not want lingual braces or aligner treatment. The wires in clear braces are visible, but they offer a good and discreet option compared to metal braces. However, these braces are also more prone to breakage.

At PORTH, the unique option that you could have is to mix and match all types of braces with clear aligners. For example, you can have lingual braces in the upper teeth and metal braces in the lower teeth. Or, clear aligners for upper teeth and metal braces for the lower. We personalized your treatment with hybrid appliances — a mix of your choices.

For certain adult patients, treatment needs extend beyond orthodontic treatment alone. Braces or aligners alone cannot fix skeletal issues. Problems like a small lower jaw, uneven jaws, or a strong lower jaw may need more treatment. One effective treatment option for adult patients is combining jaw surgery with adult orthodontic treatment, known as orthognathic surgery.

Orthognathic surgery integrates adult orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery. The typical sequence involves a pre-surgery orthodontic phase, followed by surgery, and then post-surgery orthodontic treatment. The entire process can take between 14 months to three years. The cost of corrective jaw surgery includes both orthodontic treatment and the surgery. Medical insurance mainly covers hospital charges.

At PORTH, we have numerous patients treated with orthognathic surgery. Dr. Rooz collaborates with various surgeons. Corrective jaw surgery driven by digital technology is one of unique personalized treatment options we offer. Book a free consultation to learn more about your treatment options. We provide corrective jaw surgery using lingual braces and clear aligners. This way, you won’t need to wear traditional braces.

A significant number of adult patients struggle with sleep apnea, a multifactorial condition with various underlying causes. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one type of sleep-related breathing disorder. Corrective jaw surgery is a good option for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults. It can be used alongside standard treatments like CPAP or oral appliances.

The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that orthodontists work with a sleep team. This helps them give better care to patients with OSA.

Many aggressive treatments, like MARPE or AGGA, are often suggested to OSA patients. This happens without a proper diagnosis or teamwork with a sleep team. These unnecessary treatments can cause lasting harm. This includes damage to gum tissue, early tooth loss, TMJ problems, and bite issues.

Dr. Rooz works closely with a team of specialists to offer scientifically-driven treatments for patients with OSA. If you’re interested in learning more, please reach out to us.