Braces are increasingly becoming a popular option for adults, as more individuals seek orthodontic treatment later in life. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, there was a 16% increase in adult orthodontic patients in the U.S. and Canada from 2012 to 2016. Additionally, globally, the number of adults seeking orthodontic care is rising by over 8% each year.
Several factors contribute to this trend. One significant reason is the advancement of clear aligners, which provide a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Furthermore, modern wire braces have become lighter and more comfortable than their predecessors.
Dr. Jordan Roth from Fried & Roth Orthodontics in Lyndhurst and Dr. Philip Bomeli of Solon Orthodontics shared their insights on adult orthodontic treatment. Dr. Roth noted, “Adult orthodontic treatment can address both elective aesthetic concerns and functional issues,” mentioning his experience with an 82-year-old patient undergoing braces.
Dr. Bomeli added, “I’ve seen several patients in their early ‘70s opt for braces. While the process of applying braces for adults is similar to that of younger patients, adults often take a bit longer to acclimate to them compared to children or teens, who are used to changes in their mouths.”
The complexity of adult orthodontic treatment varies by individual. Dr. Roth explained, “The ease or difficulty of adult treatment depends on the specific case. Some patients may benefit from clear aligners, while others may require more extensive procedures, including braces, extractions, or even surgical coordination.”
For many adults, the decision to pursue orthodontic treatment is not made lightly. Dr. Bomeli explained that a general dentist might recommend an orthodontist for various reasons, such as bite issues or the need for additional space for crowns or other restorative work.
The duration of treatment can also differ significantly among adults. Dr. Roth noted, “Adult treatment timelines can range from a few months to a couple of years.” Dr. Bomeli elaborated that “treatment duration depends on each person’s unique needs and objectives.” For less complex cases, treatment might be completed in about six to nine months. However, more complicated cases can extend to two years or more. It’s worth noting that while there is no age limit to tooth movement, adult teeth typically shift more slowly than those of children or adolescents, particularly at the outset of treatment.
Adult orthodontic cases often involve collaboration across various dental specialties, such as oral surgery, endodontics, and periodontics, necessitating thorough treatment planning and coordination among dental professionals.
Dr. Roth highlighted that not all orthodontists specialize in treating adults, but many do offer services tailored to this demographic. Treatment options range from traditional metal braces and clear ceramic aesthetic braces to clear aligners and hybrid approaches, where a combination of braces and aligners are used.
So, the next time you spot an adult in the orthodontist’s chair, remember that they are part of a growing trend—according to Humana, approximately 4 million Americans wear braces, and 25% of them are adults.
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