When we’re younger, it’s easy to overlook the importance of good oral hygiene. We may not fully comprehend how brushing and flossing can have an impact beyond a healthy smile. As we get older, however, we often gain a better understanding of the role our oral health plays in our overall health. For many people, this results in a renewed desire to take better care of their teeth and gums. That may include seeking out dental or orthodontic treatment to keep their smile in great shape for years to come.
We’re seeing this more than ever here at Jennings Orthodontics. Our practice is proud to treat patients of all ages, including adults. If you’ve spent years feeling uncomfortable with the way your teeth look or function, you may have assumed you were past the age where these issues could be corrected. That couldn’t be further from the truth! You’re never too old to achieve the confident smile you’ve always wanted. We offer a variety of effective and affordable treatment options to help correct bad bites and improve your oral health.
Why are more adults exploring orthodontic treatment?
With 1 in 4 current orthodontic patients over the age of 18, more adults than ever before are exploring their treatment options! So what’s behind this increase?
There are many reasons for adults to seek orthodontic treatment once they learn it’s available to them. Many have received some orthodontic treatment earlier in life that was never completed. Others finished their treatment, but didn’t wear their retainers as directed afterward. In each scenario, the teeth have shifted back towards their original positions over time. These patients may wish to complete the process or might need to redo it completely.
Other adults are interested in improving the cosmetic appearance of their smile. Orthodontic treatment with an experienced provider like Dr. Jennings can give patients a beautifully aligned smile that can increase their confidence and give their self-esteem a boost! This often has a positive effect on an adult’s personal, professional, and social life.
Treatment options for adult patients
Whatever your reason for seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, there are more choices than ever to give you a complete smile transformation!
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are the most widely used orthodontic appliance. They have a proven track record of successfully treating a variety of orthodontic issues. Braces are especially useful for cases that are more complex or severe. While they’ve been around for a long time, metal braces have undergone some major changes in recent years! Today’s braces are lighter, sleeker, and more comfortable than any previous models. Patients can also add a fun pop of personality with brightly colored elastics, or choose clear bands for a more subtle option.
Clear braces
Clear braces function the same way metal braces do, but come with the added benefit of clear brackets. This gives patients an extremely discreet way to straighten their teeth, especially when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored elastics! The ceramic brackets we use with clear braces are slightly larger and a bit more brittle than metal brackets, so we tend to use them on the upper front teeth more often than the lower teeth. Because clear braces are much less visible than metal brackets, they’re a popular choice with our teen and adult patients.
Invisalign clear aligners
Instead of brackets, wires, and bands, the innovative Invisalign system uses a series of customized clear aligners to shift the teeth over time. The aligners are designed to be removed when a patient is eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing their teeth. This gives them an extra measure of freedom that’s hard to beat!
Patient compliance is an essential part of treatment with Invisalign. The aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours per day throughout the orthodontic process to successfully straighten smiles. Patients are also responsible for switching each aligner out with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks. This allows them to keep up with the movements their teeth are making. When worn as directed, Invisalign can be just as efficient as braces at treating many of the most common orthodontic issues.
Your complimentary consultation
We pack a lot into your first visit with our Louisville or Mt. Washington office! During this appointment, we’ll get to know a bit about each other and discuss the concerns you have about your oral health. We’ll also:
- review your dental and medical history forms
- perform a thorough oral examination
- go over the results of this exam with you
- create a customized treatment plan for you
- discuss the investment required for your new smile
- outline your insurance options and any payment plans available to you
Once you’ve decided on a treatment plan with Dr. Jennings, we’ll walk you through everything included in that process. We’ll also discuss the investment needed for your new smile and outline your payment options. Our team will make sure you understand exactly what your customized plan includes before you begin, so you never have to worry about any hidden fees.
Get a confident smile with Jennings Orthodontics
Like most things in life, every treatment option will have its own list of pros and cons. Not every treatment will be suitable for all patients! But working with an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Jennings means you’ll receive only the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.
If you’ve been waiting your whole life to improve your smile, the last thing you want is a cookie-cutter approach to treatment. At Jennings Orthodontics, every treatment plan is customized based on the patient’s unique smile, their lifestyle, and their goals. We’re committed to giving you a rewarding and stress-free experience from your first appointment to your last!
If you’re ready to take the first step towards the confident smile you’ve always wanted, get in touch today to schedule a FREE consultation with Dr. Jennings! We’d love to tell you more about the compassionate care and beautiful smiles we provide for adult patients in our community.