Teeth Alignment Options for Teens and Adults
All Family Dental - At what age can I get orthodontic treatment
All Family Dental - Do Braces Hurt?
A variety of orthodontic solutions are available to enhance any smile, suitable for every family member, from teenagers to adults. While we take joy in perfecting your smile, orthodontic care also significantly boosts your oral health. Misaligned teeth and an uneven bite can be challenging to maintain, often leading to discomfort or even pain. Through orthodontic treatment, these problems can be addressed, potentially in as few as six months.
Determining whether you need orthodontic care can be straightforward if you notice any of the following issues:
- Overbite: This occurs when your upper teeth extend significantly beyond your lower teeth.
- Spacing: Noticeable gaps or spaces between your teeth.
- Underbite: This condition is evident when your lower teeth protrude past your upper teeth.
- Crowding: Overlapping teeth or teeth so close together, flossing becomes difficult.
- Crossbite: An uncomfortable bite where the upper and lower teeth do not align properly.
- Pain: Persistent headaches, jaw pain, or pain in the upper back and neck area.
If you experience any of these symptoms, orthodontic treatment might be beneficial for you.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are many different treatment options available depending on your personal needs and your budget. Here are a few of the options that may be available:Traditional Braces
When you hear the word braces, you most likely think of those bulky metal brackets with wires. Modern dental brackets are now smaller, less noticeable, and just as effective as the older bulkier ones. They’re easier to keep clean and much more comfortable.
Clear Brackets
If you’re looking for conventional brackets, we also offer clear brackets that tend to be more popular among our adult patients. These brackets are designed to combine conventional orthodontics with discretion. At a quick glance, no one will even realize you are wearing braces.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, have rapidly gained in popularity. A series of custom-made transparent trays gradually shift your teeth into their ideal position. They fit snuggly and precisely and can occasionally be removed to eat, to brush and floss like normal, and for the occasional special occasion like that big meeting or that special date.
Understanding the Expenses of Orthodontic Care in Oakdale
When evaluating the expense of orthodontic care, consider several factors:
- The present state of your oral health, including your teeth and gums.
- The degree of adjustment your teeth require.
- The type of orthodontic treatment you select.
- The duration of your treatment plan.
Since every smile is unique, the most effective way to determine the appropriate treatment for you and the associated costs is to schedule a consultation. Share your personal aspirations for your smile, allow us to assess your dental condition, and we will develop a customized treatment plan to meet your specific desires and needs.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally, orthodontic treatment is most effective in younger patients before all adult teeth have emerged. If you’re a parent, consider scheduling a consultation for your teen. But it’s important to remember that it’s never too late for adults to seek orthodontic treatment as well! Options are available for individuals of all ages to achieve a healthier, more aligned smile.
Braces typically don’t cause pain when first applied. However, as they start to move your teeth, you might experience some discomfort, which is often described as more bothersome than painful. If you do feel any pain or discomfort, please inform us! We have various solutions to ensure your treatment process is as comfortable as possible.
It’s important to avoid foods that could damage your braces or are difficult to clean from them, such as candy apples, caramel, corn on the cob, gum, and popcorn. Additionally, sugary or acidic foods should be minimized as they are harder to clean off your teeth and can increase the risk of cavities. If you have clear braces, be cautious with foods like beets, curry, and Kraft Dinner, as these can cause staining.
Don’t hesitate to call us immediately—there’s no need to wait for your next scheduled appointment.
Floss threaders and super floss are specifically designed to help you floss around braces or permanent retainers effectively. We’d be glad to demonstrate how to use them to floss your braces during your next appointment.
Orthodontic treatment durations can vary; for minor adjustments, it might be as brief as 6 months. However, most patients will wear braces for anywhere between 6 months and 2 years. We can provide a more precise timeframe after conducting an oral examination.
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