About Adult Braces

Orthodontic treatment is successful at any age; adults and children can equally benefit from a healthy, happy smile. In fact, one out of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21 years of age. Adult patients are more likely to be recommended jaw surgery because their jaws are no longer growing. In addition, some adults may have experienced a breakdown of their teeth or the bone that supports the teeth. This could result in the requirement of periodontal treatment, in addition to orthodontic treatment. This bone loss could also limit the amount or direction of tooth movement.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

The appliances used in orthodontic treatment can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They are usually removable but in some instances, the brackets may be bonded to the teeth. Orthodontic treatment achieves success by providing a constant, gentle force in the desired direction. This movement helps move the teeth to the corrected position. The brackets can be clear or silver. Patients can also choose the color of the ties that hold the wire in the brackets. Wires are not only less noticeable but are much more efficient than they used to be.

Duration of Treatment

Interceptive- early treatment procedures- could take as little as six months. Comprehensive treatment can range from one to three years, but the average is two years. The duration of treatment depends on the growth of the patient’s mouth, as well as, the patient’s diligence to complying with the orthodontic treatment. The patient’s teeth and jaw can only be moved into the proper positions if he or she consistently wearing the rubber bands, retainer, or other appliances prescribed. If the patient neglects his or her appliances, then this could potentially increase the length of the treatment process, as well.

Soreness Caused From Braces and Appliances

A patient’s teeth and mouth could feel a little tender or sore after getting braces. This is perfectly normal and will pass soon. It will not last forever! However, in order to relieve this temporary pain, we recommend dissolving one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water. The patient can swish and gargle- but do not swallow! –the solution in his or her mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out. If the pain requires more than this, then a pain reliever can be taken. It is not uncommon for a patient’s lips, cheeks, and tongue to be irritated the following one to two week after receiving the braces. Wax can be used to lessen the tenderness; if you would like some wax, then just let us know!

Loose Teeth

It is completely normal for a patient’s teeth to feel a little loose after treatment. They must loosen so they can move to the proper position. Once the patient’s teeth have been repositioned, then they will no longer be loose.