Adult Orthodontics…Many people still maintain the belief that braces are for kids and teens. That is far from being factual. In a survey conducted by the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists), many orthodontic practices said that adults comprised up to 50% of their patients. That same study found that 44% of those adult patients were men.
AAO also asked adults about their pretreatment concerns. Here are the three major concerns according to the survey:
1. “What will others think?”
2. “How will I look?”
3. “Am I too old?”
Seventy-one percent of the survey group of adults also said those concerns disappeared after treatment started.
Many patients in adult orthodontics are looking to be treated for dental problems they have been experiencing for years…some since childhood. Many technological advances in adult orthodontics make it possible to treat adult patients with malocclusions (misalignment) of teeth with outstanding results. In some instances, the doctors at Boyd Orthodontics will recommend Invisalign or clear braces as a treatment option for those self-conscious about wearing braces.
Although there are some important differences between treating children, teens, and adults, since an orthodontist specializes in treating facial and dental irregularities, they know what to look for when treating an adult patient. There are specific considerations that deal with age, poor bites, and tooth extractions that require the expertise of a trained specialist.
A separate study conducted on behalf of the AAO for National Orthodontic Health Month in October found that adults who had treatment provided by an orthodontist reported that their treatment contributed to significant improvements in both their professional and personal lives. Seventy-five percent of adults surveyed reported improvements in career or personal relationships, which they attributed to their improved post-orthodontic smile. Citing their newfound self-confidence, 92% of survey respondents said they would recommend orthodontic treatment to other adults.
The bottom line is that more and more people are undergoing adult orthodontics. Please feel free to contact our Northeast Columbia, Downtown Columbia or Lexington SC office to schedule a complimentary consultation. Don’t wait any longer. Now is the time to get that gorgeous smile you have always wanted…we look forward to meeting you.
