Many people assume that orthodontics are only for children and teenagers, but in recent years, adult orthodontic care has become increasingly popular. This is because more people want to have straighter smiles, and due to this, orthodontic care for those over the age of 18 is now more affordable.
So, here is a comprehensive guide to adult based orthodontic care.
What is adult orthodontic care?
You may be wondering what adult orthodontic care is and how it differs from traditional orthodontic treatment. Simply put, adult orthodontic care involves using braces or other orthodontic appliances to straighten crooked teeth and correct bite problems in adults. While children and teenagers may receive orthodontic treatment as a preventive measure, adult orthodontic care is usually undertaken for cosmetic reasons or to address long-standing dental issues.
There are many options for adult orthodontic care, including fitted braces, lingual braces and Invisalign Weybridge.
Who can benefit from adult orthodontic care?
Adult orthodontic care is not just for those who want a straighter smile. It can also help with a range of dental issues, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, overcrowded teeth, and gaps between teeth. These issues not only affect the appearance of your smile, but can also lead to problems with chewing and speaking.
Many adults are also discovering that orthodontic treatment can help with issues related to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. These disorders can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck. Orthodontic treatment can help to realign the jaw and alleviate these symptoms.
How does adult orthodontic treatment work?
If you’re considering adult orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering how it works. The first step is to schedule a consultation with a dentist or orthodontist who specialises in adult orthodontic care. During your consultation, your dentist will evaluate your dental issues and recommend the best course of treatment for you. If you have spacing, crowding, or other issues relating to the front of your teeth that are deemed to be mild or moderate, you will likely be a good candidate for invisible aligners.
Once you have started wearing your aligners, you will need to visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly for adjustments. The length of your treatment will depend on the severity of your dental issues, but most cases using dental aligners last between 3 and 9 months.
Maintaining the aligners
Just like your teeth, invisible aligners need to be cleaned regularly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush your aligners. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the plastic. You also need to rinse your aligners with water every time you take them out to eat or drink. This helps to prevent food particles and bacteria from building up on the aligners.
When you’re not wearing your aligners, store them in their case to protect them from damage and bacteria. Do not put them in your pocket or your bag, as this can cause them to become warped out of shape, which will mean that you need to order new ones.
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