You are never too old to achieve a more beautiful smile with adult braces in Las Vegas, NV! In fact, about 25% of all orthodontic patients are now adults. If you are ready to begin your journey toward a straighter, healthier and more attractive smile, our Vegas orthodontist and team are here to help.
What are Adult Braces?
Most patients know that a straighter smile improves your appearance as well as your self-confidence. Less well-known is the fact that properly aligned teeth also improve your oral health and function. Orthodontic treatment can help you avoid a number of dental problems, including tooth decay, gum and bone loss, TMJ disorders, and excessive wear of your tooth enamel.
Dr. Brian Chamberlain offers several treatments to align your teeth and improve your oral health and smile, including discreet options such as self-ligating braces and clear aligners. During your initial consultation he will evaluate your teeth, smile and oral health to better understand your needs before discussing your treatment options with you. We will then be able to create an individualized treatment plan that will help you achieve your smile goals.
Orthodontic Treatment Options for Adults
In general, all the same treatments that work for children and teenagers will also work for adults. Traditional braces are a tried-and-true option for aligning teeth, and can be received by nearly everyone seeking orthodontic treatment. Self-ligating braces are also available to offer faster treatment times. However, many adults prefer more discreet treatment options, and Dr. Chamberlain also offers clear braces and uLab® clear aligners.
Clear braces function like traditional metal braces, but the brackets are made from tooth-colored materials rather than metal, which allows them to blend in with your teeth more. Clear aligners are even more discreet, consisting of an aligner made from smooth plastic material. This aligner is custom-made to fit your teeth and mouth perfectly, ensuring that your treatment is both comfortable and effective, and is nearly invisible once placed in your mouth.
Our experienced orthodontist will meet one-on-one with you during your initial consultation to discuss your options and determine which type of orthodontic treatment is right for you.
How Is Adult Treatment Different From Treatment Earlier In Life?
Adult orthodontic treatment differs in several key ways due to the maturity and condition of the oral structures. Some of these differences include:
- Adults no longer experience bone and jaw growth. In adolescents, orthodontic treatment can harness the natural growth of the jaw to align teeth and correct bite issues. Adults do not have this advantage, so our orthodontist may make different recommendations to adjust your treatment plan. In some cases, this may result in a slightly longer treatment time compared to younger patients.
- The potential for gum or bone loss. Adults are more likely to have experienced periodontal disease, which can lead to receding gum and diminished bone density around the teeth. Dr. Chamberlain can accommodate for this to provide support for your teeth and ensure that orthodontic treatment does not exacerbate these issues. Depending on your needs, he may recommend that you receive additional periodontal treatments before you start orthodontic treatment.
- Adults are more likely to have worn, damaged or missing teeth. Normal wear over the years can alter the shape and alignment of your teeth, and may make orthodontic treatment more complex. You may need to receive restorative treatments before braces or aligners will be effective for you. Our orthodontist will evaluate your mouth prior to treatment to determine if this is the case for you.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
Adult orthodontics offers numerous benefits beyond achieving a straighter smile. These include:
- Improved oral health. Misaligned teeth can be difficult to clean properly, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. By correcting the alignment, adults can enhance their ability to maintain good oral hygiene, reducing the likelihood of cavities and periodontal issues.
- Improvement in bite and overall oral function. Misaligned teeth can cause an improper bite, leading to difficulties in chewing and speaking. Orthodontic treatment can correct bite issues, making everyday activities like eating and talking more comfortable and efficient.
- Alleviating jaw pain and headaches. Misalignment often results in uneven pressure distribution during chewing, which can strain the jaw muscles and joints, causing discomfort. By achieving proper alignment, orthodontics can reduce or eliminate these symptoms, leading to a better quality of life.
- Improved confidence and self-esteem. The psychological benefits of a beautiful smile cannot be understated. Many adults who undergo orthodontic treatment report feeling more confident in social and professional settings, which can positively impact their overall wellbeing.
Ready to Straighten Your Teeth?
We invite you to contact SuperSmile Orthodontics today at 702-645-5100 to schedule your personal consultation with our experienced Vegas orthodontist and learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontic treatment in Las Vegas, Nevada!