Adults and kids alike can benefit from the boost in self-confidence that comes from having a great-looking smile with beautifully aligned teeth. Orthodontic treatment can even improve chewing, speaking and oral hygiene in certain cases. And with today's virtually invisible orthodontic appliances, it's possible to keep your treatment a private matter… until your new smile is unveiled, of course!
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Some bite problems are much easier to treat if they are caught at an early age. That's why all children should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, even if it's not yet time to begin treatment.
It is preferable to treat many orthodontic problems during adolescence while the body is still growing rapidly. In later years, when the bones of the face and jaws are fully developed, many conditions become more difficult (and costly) to treat.
If you think you've missed your chance to have beautiful, straight teeth, think again! Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, so there's no such thing as being too old for braces. However, orthodontic treatment for adults is different in certain respects than it is for a growing child.
Braces are fixed orthodontic appliances attached to the teeth that normally are not removed until treatment is complete. You may already be familiar with traditional metal braces, but there are also less noticeable alternatives available.
Removable clear aligners offer adults and teens a nearly invisible alternative to traditional metal braces. They also allow easy cleaning of your teeth each day and can even be taken out for important social occasions.
Learn more about Clear Orthodontic Aligners.
We can make use of a variety of special appliances when braces alone aren't enough to move teeth into a better position, to correct various other conditions, and to secure the teeth in their new and improved position. These appliances include:
When the relationship between the teeth and jaws is causing a serious orthodontic problem, surgery may be recommended. Conditions treated surgically may include underbites and congenital abnormalities (birth defects) related to jaw development.
Once you've invested in orthodontic treatment, you'll want to make sure to keep your smile healthy and looking great.
Genuine orthodontic emergencies are rare, but it's a good idea to know what can happen and what to do.
If you want to learn more about which services are right for you, contact Dr. Deborah L. Schafer at Schafer Smiles to schedule a consultation. Call our Wayland, NY location that serves the surrounding areas of Dansville, Bath, Hornell, Naples and Canisteo, NY at 585-728-3830 today!