Although just over 50% of the people who use orthodontics are between the ages of 12 and 17, there are still plenty of adults who can and do use orthodontics to fix problems with their teeth. At Shullman Orthodontics in Wellington, FL, we like to stress to our patients that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids or teenagers; people of all ages can benefit from it. In fact, more and more adults today are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. We offer a wide selection of treatments in order to meet the individual needs and desires of each of our adult patients. Surprisingly, adults have more orthodontic options because professionals do not have to worry about dealing with a growing mouth. This relative stability gives adults the ability to choose between solutions that kids and teens may not have, here are a few alternatives for adult braces.
Traditional braces are always an option. When compared to other treatments this option generally works the fastest and allows your orthodontist the most control. There have been quite a few technological upgrades that make the current generation of orthodontic brackets much better than the huge contraptions of yesteryear. First of all, today’s “traditional” braces weigh much less and are much smaller than the traditional braces that your friends wore as teens.
At Shullman Orthodontics our metal brackets are combined with a self-ligating system. This technology will allow your teeth to move more easily and with less force than traditional braces. Self-ligating braces are designed with a built-in mechanism for locking the arch wire in the bracket without the use of elastic ties. With the elimination of friction from the elastics bands used with traditional brackets, there is less pressure being placed on your teeth. In addition, the orthodontic wires used, provide lighter and continuous forces; which allow patients to wear braces for a shorter period of time and with less overall discomfort.
If you have a job that requires you to maintain a certain image, or you simply do not relish the idea of metal brackets, you may have the option of clear braces. Also known as ceramic braces, this option will give you the ability to minimize the appearance of wearing braces.
Whether you choose metal or clear braces, you will always have the ability to add some extra style to your brackets. Check out the many color options available by checking out Shullman Orthodontics’ braces color planner.
Still another great option for adults is lingual braces. These braces still maintain the bracket and wire format of traditional braces; however, they are placed around the back of the teeth rather than in the front. Because the brackets are in the back, no one will be able to tell that you have braces in your mouth. Although this option is slightly more expensive than ceramic braces, Shullman Orthodontics has plenty of experience in the procedure. Due to the limitations of this treatment option, you will need to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Howard Shullman to find out if this alternative is right for you.
With Invisalign®, you can take advantage of the absolute latest in technological upgrades for orthodontic treatments. Instead of dealing with brackets and wires, you can improve your smile using a series of plastic aligners. Aligners are removable and virtually invisible, which means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing; and you can still eat and drink what you want. Also, you can brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth; and there are no wires, metal or brackets to cause mouth abrasions.
Worried about taking impressions? Thankfully, old-school impressions are no longer necessary for Invisalign®. Shullman Orthodontics uses an iTero Digital Impression System; a scanner which allows us to take a 3D scan of your teeth, eliminating the mess and gagging associated with the traditional trays and putty used to make impressions for Invisalign® and other orthodontic appliances.
It can be estimated that around 50% of people getting orthodontic care today are adults, without a doubt the fastest rising segment of the population, when it comes to people with braces. People of all ages are now realizing that there is no reason for them to have anything less than a perfect smile. As legendary musician Shinichi Suzuki once said, “Children learn to smile from their parents.” Whether you have children or not, people are definitely learning how to treat you from how you treat yourself.
Shullman Orthodontics is the Wellington orthodontist who can advise you on your braces alternatives and implement virtually any solution that you choose. We have a dedicated staff, utilize the most state-of-the-art technology, and are dedicated to giving you the best orthodontic experience possible.
Call our office so that we can get you started on the path to a healthy and vibrant smile today. Our office works with many insurance plans and we offer very flexible payment options to ensure you get the treatment that you want without the worry of finances getting in the way.
“If you smile when no one else is around, you really mean it.” This is one of the most lasting quotes from legendary 60 Minutes writer, Andy Rooney. Our question to you is simple; are you smiling right now?
