One in five orthodontic patients is an adult. The American Association of Orthodontists estimates that nearly one million adults in the United States and Canada are receiving treatment from an orthodontist. Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children. Orthodontic forces move the teeth in the same way for both a 75 year old adult and a 12 year old child. Complicating factors may create special treatment planning needs for the adult. To learn about correction of a specific problem, consult with Dr. McCombs who has over 30 years experience in treating adults.
Some problems that are more common in adults:
No Jaw Growth
Gum or Bone Loss
Worn, Damaged or Missing Teeth
Painful Jaw Muscles and Jaw Joints
Invisalign® is an Alternative
A popular option for many adults is Invisalign, a state-of-the-art alternative to traditional braces. Instead of brackets and wires straightening teeth, clear removable aligners do all the work. The practically invisible aligners are worn 23 hours a day for two weeks at a time before moving on to the next aligner. They are only removed for eating and brushing. Dr. McCombs will prescribe a treatment plan with a series of aligners that will gradually straighten teeth.
