Adult Orthodontics

It is estimated that approximately 25 to 40 % of active Orthodontic patients across the nation are adults over the age of 25.  It is never too late to start the process towards having the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of, and of enjoying the benefits that a pleasing, healthy smile can provide. 

Most adults prefer to have braces which are discrete and esthetic in appearance. Dr. Richardson can provide her adult patients with two different types of appliances which are successful in moving teeth and are virtually invisible.

Invisible Braces (Clear Aligners)
Some patients are good candidates for “invisible braces”.  This new technology allows the doctor to fabricate a series of custom trays which slowly move teeth into the desired position.  Clear aligners are comfortable, invisible, and removable so that the patient can easily keep their teeth clean during treatment.  Dr. Richardson can determine if you are a good candidate for this type of treatment once she completes your Orthodontic evaluation.

Clear Braces
There are many different types of clear braces available to Orthodontic patients, and Dr. Richardson has chosen the product that she feels has the highest esthetic appearance and functions the best.  The clear braces she uses are manufactured to maximize patient comfort by being thinner and more rounded, thereby minimizing lip and cheek abrasions.  Compared to their competitors, she ranks them the highest for esthetics, and they are removed more easily than some of the other types of clear braces available on the market.

Special Considerations
Adult patients have special concerns that may need to be considered when Dr. Richardson is planning their treatment.  Unlike adolescents, adults are not actively growing, and if the bones of the face and skull do not relate normally, jaw surgery may be necessary to correct their bite.  Sometimes adult patients have lost gum tissue or the bone that supports their teeth, and this may necessitate a consultation with a gum specialist (Periodontist) prior to, or during, their Orthodontic treatment.  Also, their Dentist or Prosthodontist may be involved in their treatment plan if they are missing teeth, and require bridges or implants to fill in the spaces once they finish with their Orthodontic treatment.