Braces ... Not Just For Children Anymore (p.42)

By Dr. Jason Gladwell

Orthodontic treatment was once thought to be an option only for teenagers and young adults. However, the past decade has seen a large increase in the number of adults seeking a more functional or beautiful smile. Aesthetic options for treatment such as Invisalign (a clear aligner therapy), as well as clear braces, have helped to increase the popularity of adult orthodontics. The days of large metal bands encompassing an entire tooth are long gone. In fact, most cases treated in our office, for both children and adults, are done without bands and the uncomfortable spacers they require.

Invisalign has become the industry leader in terms of clear aligner therapy, or “invisible braces.” Although Invisalign is not always a treatment option for everyone, the difficulty level of cases we are able to treat predictably is much greater than it was just a few short years ago. The main reason for this increase in the number of cases we are able to treat with Invisalign is very much related to the vast resources they have put into research and development of their product. Experienced Invisalign providers are able to use the product in combination with other treatment modalities to greatly expand the number of cases they are able to treat. Where once Invisalign was thought only to be a treatment option for minor crowding, experienced practitioners are able to correct more moderate crowding, as well as cases that are so complex they might require the extraction of permanent teeth. Starting treatment is also very easy for the patient. After a thorough examination to determine if you are a candidate, molds of the teeth and directions by the orthodontist dictating the desired movements and sequencing are sent to Invisalign where the aligners are made. A few weeks later, and you are on your way to a new smile!

For those who are not candidates for Invisalign, or those who would prefer to take advantage of the benefits of traditional braces, there are more aesthetic options available than ever before. The latest technology in clear braces allows us to treat adult patients without encountering many of the problems or annoyances they might have found in the past. As many adults can attest to, some “clear” braces don’t stay “clear” very long. This is because the ceramic “clear” braces are being used in conjunction with a “colorless” tie that holds the wires against the braces. The problem is, these “colorless” ties don’t stay that way. Drinking coffee, tea, red wine, or a variety of other common drinks can change the color to an unattractive yellow. New technology now allows us to use “clear” braces, where the wires attach directly to the braces without the use of a “colorless” tie. This eliminates the potential for embarrassing discoloration of the braces throughout treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment, consult with your dentist and orthodontist to learn which treatment plan is best for you; there are many options now available, and your doctors can help you make the right decision.

Dr. Jason Gladwell is a Board Certified Specialist in orthodontics. To learn more about his practice, visit www.gladwellorthodontics.com.