Adult braces

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Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment is no longer limited to kids. Clear aligners (Invisalign) and lingual braces (invisible braces) changed the orthodontic treatment for adult patients. Clear braces and traditional braces (front of the teeth) are still popular for some adults. In sum there are various types of braces available for adults.

 

Adult orthodontic treatment include correcting crooked teeth as well as fixing deep overbite, excessive overjet, or underbite. Orthodontists offer orthodontic care to fix malocclusion or to correct jaw problems. A confident smile and straight teeth can take you far.

Orthodontic treatment options

Orthodontic treatment options have changed like everything in dentistry. Ceramic braces (ceramic brackets) used to be an only upgrade the traditional metal braces for adult orthodontic patients.

Orthodontic treatment options for adults include:

  1. Correcting misalignment and teeth straightening

  2. Improving oral hygiene, gum disease, and overall health by fixing malocclusion

  3. Preparing spaces for dental implants

  4. Improving TMJ problems in certain malocclusions

  5. Correcting jaw abnormalities with orthognathic surgery (corrective jaw surgery)

Orthodontic treatment time for adult braces or Invisalign

Treatment time is directly tied to the treatment plan which is based on the complexity of orthodontic care. Adult clear aligners or braces varies from 6 months to 2 years of orthodontic care.

Box orthodontics or DIY adult braces

The American association of orthodontists has been warning adult patients about direct to consumers aligner treatment options like smile direct club. These companies often claim accessibility and improvement of oral health as the center of their mission.

Cost of braces and dental insurance

Most orthodontists offer free consultations to learn the treatment plan and the cost of treatment. Insurance coverage for orthodontic treatment is limited to 50% of the total cost with a cap. This include appliances like self-ligating braces or clear aligners, xrays, visits and retainers. Payment plans are mostly interest free for orthodontic treatment.