Orthodontic treatment for adult patient – A handy solution for dental problems

You might think that orthodontic treatment is only for children and adolescents, but this perception is not correct. In fact, an increasing number of adults are choosing to turn to an orthodontic specialist to solve their dental problems and improve their appearance.

Dental problems in adults can be caused by a number of factors, including wearing improper braces or neglecting proper dental care in childhood and adolescence.

Dental problems can also arise from ageing, tooth loss and hormonal changes that can affect the structure of the bones and gums.

Orthodontic treatment in adult patients can include a wide range of options, from traditional braces to invisible braces or tongue depressors. Each patient can choose the option that best suits their needs and wishes.

Traditional braces, such as metal or ceramic brackets, are still a popular option for orthodontic treatment in adult patients. They work by applying controlled pressure to the teeth to move them into the correct position.

Braces can be customized to suit each patient’s lifestyle and preferences so that they are as comfortable as possible and do not interfere with speaking or eating.

Invisible braces, such as Invisalign braces, are an attractive option for adult patients who want discreet treatment.

They are made of clear materials and fit snugly over the teeth so they are virtually invisible. They can also be temporarily removed for meals or other important events, making them a convenient option for patients who want to maintain their active lifestyle.

Lingual spoons are another invisible orthodontic treatment option that attach to the inside of the teeth.

They are made of lightweight and durable materials so they are comfortable for patients.

Lingual spoons can also be customized to suit each patient individually so that the desired results can be achieved.

Orthodontic treatment in adult patients can provide numerous benefits, including better chewing, improved appearance and increased self-confidence

Orthodontics is the discipline of dentistry that specializes in correcting malposition of the skeletal bone and teeth.

By aligning the jaws and dental units the patient’s smile, the aesthetics of the dental arches, self-confidence and oral health are restored.

The orthodontist uses a clinical examination and ancillary methods (X-rays, study models, photographs) to determine the patient’s abnormalities and draws up a comprehensive treatment plan, often including other branches of dentistry.

If children are still growing and their jaws have not reached their maximum development, mobile appliances can also be used to correct dental anomalies in order to shape and direct their growth.

Once the period of development has reached the maximum possible, orthodontic intervention will be carried out using fixed appliances.

In adults, on the other hand, the period of bone growth is long over and the jaws can no longer be directed to correct defects.

For skeletal anomalies, orthognathic surgery is chosen and for dental anomalies, fixed appliances are the optimal solution.

Situations that can be corrected with an orthodontic appliance:

• Dental malposition: rotated, crooked teeth

• Enlarged interdental spaces: these can disturb the patient aesthetically. On the other hand, the interdental papilla is no longer protective and the impact of food at this level will cause pain, inflammation or in more severe cases bleeding and retraction.

• Correction of abnormal occlusal relationships: if teeth do not occlude in a physiological position, abnormal relationships will be transmitted to the temporomandibular joint, with serious effects on it. Acute, persistent pain may occur, but also destruction of joint elements, with limitation of mouth opening or blockages preventing the normal functioning of the oral cavity.

Teeth undergoing orthodontic treatment are more difficult to clean and require more time for complete cleaning.

The dentist will explain to the patient the methods, techniques and products that facilitate this process.

However, if the patient does not follow these steps, the teeth will suffer decay or periodontal problems at the end of treatment.

Braces wearers should also eat a balanced diet and limit the consumption of sugars and sticky products between main meals.

Your orthodontist will advise you on what types of foods to avoid, due to their potential to loosen brackets or damage wires. In general, hard foods such as nuts, popcorn, candy and chewing gum should be avoided while wearing braces.

Classic adult braces are a fixed device containing brackets, attached to each tooth, elastics and springs.

The orthodontist fits and adjusts the appliance every 4-6 weeks until the desired results are achieved.

After removal of the fixed orthodontic appliance, the patient will have braces bonded to the inner surface of the teeth to maintain the results achieved.

The advantages of wearing an orthodontic appliance are an oral cavity with improved health, aesthetics and self-confidence.

Although orthodontic treatment is inevitably accompanied by some degree of discomfort, the results argue for its use.