According to the American Association of Orthodontics, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. For adults, leaving misaligned teeth untreated may lead to other dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Join the thousands of adults who have decided it’s never too late for orthodontics. Whether you’re thinking about fixing your smile or addressing a dental issue such as clenching or grinding teeth, Guthrie Orthodontics has a number of options, including:
- Clear braces
- Invisalign
- Hybrid and accelerated treatments
- Multi-disciplinary treatment
Call Guthrie Orthodontics for a free consultation. Our orthodontics team can tell you how orthodontics can improve your dental health and talk to you about different treatment options.
FAQs
Q: Am I too old for orthodontics?
A: Age doesn’t matter. Orthodontic treatment is as successful for adults as it is for children and adolescents. Teeth move in response to force being placed on them over time, regardless of age.
Q: Why is orthodontic treatment important?
A: The goal of orthodontic treatment is to create beautiful smiles and correct bites to establish proper function of the teeth and jaw. Teeth that are malaligned can be harder to clean and maintain and may experience increased wearing of tooth enamel.
Q: What is the cost?
A: Orthodontic fees vary depending on the treatment. After a complimentary face-to-face consultation, our orthodontic team will help you determine what type of treatment will best meet your needs and expectations. We offer affordable payment plans, which can be customized to include dental insurance, FSAs and HSAs.
Q: How long does treatment take?
A: It depends on the complexity of the case as well as the intended goals and objectives. A short-term touch up can be as little as several months, while comprehensive treatment could last several years. Our team will work with you to address any concerns you have regarding treatment time and find the best treatment option to meet your needs.
Q: Will treatment fit my lifestyle?
A: Certainly. You can still sing, play an instrument, dine out, kiss and do almost anything. Some temporary adjustments may be necessary, but most patients adapt quickly.
Q: How often are check-ups?
A: It will depend on the treatment recommendation, but the average is once every six weeks during active treatment.
Q: Can treatment help someone who has missing teeth?
A: Yes. Orthodontic treatment can properly align your teeth and create the proper space for future dental procedures such as veneers, crowns, implants, etc.
Q: Does gum disease impact orthodontic treatment?
A: It is imperative to have a periodontal (gum) checkup with either a periodontist or your general dentist to make sure your mouth is a good candidate for treatment. If necessary, our team can help you coordinate treatment for gum disease or any other underlying periodontal issues.
Q: Will I experience discomfort?
A: Treatment is more comfortable than ever, thanks to new techniques and appliances. Discomfort, if any, is short-lived and can be managed with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen.
Q: Can I get appliances that are less noticeable?
A: Many of today's orthodontic treatments prioritize aesthetics to better fit an adult lifestyle. Invisalign and clear braces are both excellent aesthetic options offered by our team.
Q: What is my role?
A: You are a partner in the process and play an integral part in your own treatment. Keeping appointments, maintaining good oral hygiene, and following care instructions will ensure efficient treatment and optimal results.
