Affordable Orthodontic Treatment In East China & New Baltimore Areas
Although we may commonly see kids and teens wearing braces, there is no age limit when it comes to improving the appearance of your smile. At Brieden Orthodontics, we are seeing more and more adult patients come to our office to receive orthodontic treatment throughout the New Baltimore and Chesterfield, MI areas. Due to the advancements in technology, our orthodontic appliances have been developed to better suit your lifestyle and cater to your personal preference. Whether you are looking for something durable such as traditional metal braces or discrete such as clear aligners, our orthodontist will take the time to consult with you on the most appropriate treatment method.
WHY DO ADULTS NEED TREATMENT?
Investing in a smile makeover can have significant benefits not just socially and professionally, but also for your health. During your adult years, the growth and development of the jaw are complete; however, the teeth continually shift regardless of age. Without treatment, it may become difficult to eat or speak properly and increase the risk of oral diseases. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is more prevalent in adults than children. If the gum tissues are not healthy, bone loss can occur and weaken the long-term stability of your teeth. In addition, a properly-aligned jaw and bite can prevent wear on teeth that could cause pain and discomfort. Our goal with adult orthodontic treatment is to correct your teeth and jaw to make it easier to floss, clean, and prevent cavities for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
TYPES OF TREATMENT
Orthodontic appliances work essentially the same way for both adults and children by employing light, constant force to move teeth into proper alignment. With updated orthodontic technologies, traditional metal braces are no longer the only form of treatment. Some of the newer, less visible orthodontic appliances have been designed to cater to your personal and professional lifestyle.
- Traditional Metal Braces: The tried-and-true orthodontic treatment. This is what you think of when you picture someone wearing braces: small metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth, with a thin wire running through the brackets.
- Clear Braces: Instead of metal brackets, these clear brackets are made of ceramic and/or porcelain. They are just as effective, but are considerably less noticeable.
- Clear Aligners: As the modern alternative to fixed brackets, clear aligners are completely removable and invisible. The treatment process involves a series of clear plastic “trays” that fit over your teeth exactly, and each tray is part of a series that move your teeth a little bit at a time, inching them towards the proper position. The trays are designed with the help of 3D imaging software to create models of your bite and jaw alignment.
- Lingual Braces: Even less visible than clear aligners, lingual braces are bonded to the back of your teeth (tongue side).
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT
Adults and children alike may experience mild discomfort during orthodontic treatment. Typically, your teeth will be the most uncomfortable 12 to 24 hours after an adjustment, and the soreness tends to disappear within a week. You may find it difficult to chew more solid foods during that time, and in certain cases, taking a painkiller can help with the soreness.
Modern orthodontic appliances are more comfortable to wear because they place less pressure on the teeth, while at the same time being able to move them faster. This decreases the overall treatment time. Modern treatments also require fewer visits to the orthodontist because the time required between adjustments is also longer, up around 8 to 10 weeks between appointments.
Contact Your East China & New Baltimore Area Orthodontist!
If you are ready to transform the look and health of your smile, come see us at Brieden Orthodontics! We invite you to contact us for any questions or to schedule an appointment! Dr. Brieden and staff can help you determine which orthodontic treatment is best for you. We look forward to giving you a lifetime of healthy and happy smiles.