Adult treatment, more specifically, adult treatment for crooked teeth and misaligned bites, is something Eastern Virginia Orthodontics knows a lot about. They see dozens of adult patients every year who are seeking a more perfect smile. These patients have lived part to half of their adult lives struggling with self-esteem issues, chewing issues, and bite issues. Whether you visit the Norfolk orthodontist clinic or the Virginia Beach military orthodontist, you will get the dramatic results you seek from adult orthodontic treatment.
What You Can Expect from Your Initial Consult
At the first appointment, the orthodontist will take x-rays and look at your bite and your teeth. It's the same approach used with children and teens, except that there's no expectation that a growth spurt will help with the treatment process. Where growth spurts in kids can assist in realigning the bite and moving teeth in conjunction with orthodontics, the treatment in adults relies more heavily on the long-term use of devices to force change.
The first step in understanding your treatment plan is that it is much more difficult for adults to correct crooked teeth or teeth that are not in their correct positions. Moving the jaw into position is also difficult. Ergo, it might be more painful every time your orthodontic appliances are adjusted because you are attempting to force your mouth to do something it hasn't had to do ever. If you can accept that possibility, then the treatment plan for you can proceed.
When Your Norfolk Orthodontist or Virginia Beach Military Orthodontist May Recommend Surgery
Surgery as a part of adult orthodontic treatment is possible. It is only recommended in adults who have a very severe overbite or underbite since the teeth cannot be moved into position until the jaws align. If surgery is recommended as part of your treatment, your orthodontist will tell you why, and then tell you what will be involved.
Sometimes the jaw has to be sawed through and lengthened with special metal expanders. Sometimes teeth have to be removed to make room in a mouth that is too small for teeth that are too large. Whatever surgical procedure is recommended, you can bet that it will do exactly what you and your orthodontist need it to do to correct your bite and your teeth.
Once the Jaws Align, the Teeth Straightening Begins
At this point, the alignment of your jaws is as good as it gets, so the orthodontist moves ahead with your treatment plan. This can include Invisalign removable clear braces, traditional metal bracket-and-wire braces, clear plastic brackets with metal wiring, and/or sublingual braces to hide them from view. As an adult, you will have to choose how much of your braces the rest of the world sees or doesn't see. The cost of braces for adult treatment varies widely, and most dental insurance companies don't cover the cost of adult orthodontics.
If you are still interested in seeing how your smile can change for the better, book an appointment with Eastern Virginia Orthodontics today for a consultation.
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