Adult Orthodontics Greensboro
Today, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult, making adult orthodontics in Greensboro a priority at Davis & Goldberg Orthodontics. Leaving misaligned teeth untreated may lead to other dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty chewing. Orthodontic treatment creates a better bite, making teeth fit better and decreasing the risk of future dental problems regardless of age.
At Davis & Goldberg Orthodontics, we make treatment more comfortable and less noticeable than ever for individuals of all ages. Many of today’s treatment options are designed to minimize the appearance of the appliance to better fit any lifestyle.
What to Expect at an Adult Orthodontics Consultation
At your free consultation appointment, you’ll explain your concerns about your teeth and your smile to the orthodontist. Dr. Goldberg or Dr. Davis will examine your teeth and other oral tissues. A staff member may take notes about what the orthodontist finds. A panoramic x-ray may be taken so that the orthodontist can see what is under your gums. Photographs are usually taken as well. You and your orthodontist may discuss recommended treatment, fees for treatment, and a suitable payment plan.
Common Orthodontic Appliances for Adult Orthodontics Patients
Braces
Braces are the most common appliance used in orthodontic treatment. Fortunately, they have come a long way. Basically, braces have two parts: brackets and wires. Wires move the teeth; brackets serve as stationary handles to hold the wires. As needed for an individual’s treatment, other components can be added.
Contemporary braces can be:
- Stainless steel: Traditional and highly effective.
- Gold-colored: Aesthetic option for a unique look.
- Tooth-colored ceramic: Blends with natural teeth for a less noticeable appearance.
Brackets are affixed directly to teeth, and wires are threaded through slots in the brackets. Most braces go on the front of the teeth. Sometimes braces can be put on the backs of teeth – these are called “lingual” braces. These are virtually invisible. Not all orthodontists offer this form of treatment, and not all kinds of orthodontic problems can be successfully treated with lingual braces. The wires on some braces are held in place by tiny rubber bands (“ligatures”), which come in a huge assortment of colors. Other braces are “self-ligating” – they do not require ligatures to hold the wires in place.
Clear Aligners
People sometimes call clear aligners “invisible braces.” They are made of a transparent plastic-like material. They are designed to fit the patient’s teeth at different stages of their treatment. Each set of aligners is worn for 1-3 weeks, at least 22 hours a day, before moving on to the next set. Each set is engineered to move the teeth incrementally, per the orthodontist’s treatment plan, until the desired alignment is reached. Tooth-colored attachments on the teeth help aligners move teeth properly. Some, but not all, kinds of orthodontic problems can be successfully treated with clear aligners.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Undergoing orthodontic treatment as an adult can significantly improve oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, a well-aligned smile enhances your appearance and boosts your confidence, which can positively impact both personal and professional interactions.
Get Started with Your Free Consultation
Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile by scheduling your free consultation at Davis & Goldberg Orthodontics. Give us a call to get started the same day with a free consultation and be sure to follow our social media for great patient updates and success stories. Your journey to a perfect smile begins here.