One in five orthodontic patients is an adult. The American Association of Orthodontists estimates that nearly 1,000,000 adults in the United States and Canada are currently receiving treatment from an orthodontist.
Maybe you didn't get braces when you needed them as a child. Or maybe you did, but you stopped wearing your retainer. In either case, crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain. Orthodontics can still help you — you are never too old for a beautiful and healthy smile.
Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily and as well for adults as children. Orthodontic forces move the teeth in the same way for both a 75-year-old adult and a 12-year-old child. Some complicating factors, such as lack of jaw growth, may create special treatment planning needs for the adult.
Orthodontic treatment, when indicated, is a positive step - especially for adults who have endured a long-standing problem. Orthodontic treatment can restore good function, increasing the health of your teeth, gums and jaw joint while improving your personal appearance and self-esteem, no matter the age.