Cosmetic Orthodontics for Teens and Adults
Orthodontic treatment is an important part of overall health for adults and teens. It improves your oral health, as well as your emotional wellbeing. A beautiful smile can transform the way you feel about yourself. This can have lasting effects on your confidence and how you present yourself to the world.
But nowadays braces are seen as a symbol of youth. They're used as a pop culture reference to portray those awkward teen years that nobody wants to look back on. Or, they're used to make adult actors appear younger in "flashback" scenes in movies or television.
The result? Metal braces and appliances are hardly appealing for today's teenagers and adults.
Fortunately, orthodontic treatment is not just for kids anymore.
Advancements in cosmetic orthodontic care have made treatment more discreet, making straightening your teeth more appealing for both adults and teens.
With an increased focus on aesthetics and straight teeth in professional and social settings, it's important to look and feel your best. But that doesn't mean you have to be stuck with bulky metal braces for months on end.
Now you can feel confident you’re putting your best face forward, without drawing attention to unsightly appliances.
Why Seek Orthodontic Treatment?
A healthy smile is about much more than fixing crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatment helps to:
- Ensure proper function of your teeth;
- Position teeth for optimal hygiene;
- Address jaw and bite issues caused by overbites, overcrowding, and other common issues;
- Treat misalignment of teeth to avoid wearing of tooth enamel (which can lead to extensive and expensive dental procedures);
- Boost confidence.
What is Cosmetic Orthodontics?
Like traditional orthodontics, cosmetic orthodontics addresses the health and alignment of your teeth. But cosmetic orthodontics differs in how it achieves results.
Cosmetic orthodontics offers treatment options that are more discreet than traditional options. The goal is achieve your idea of a beautiful smile, while drawing as little attention to your treatment as possible.
Depending on your budget and your aesthetic priorities, you have the option between a fixed appliance or a removable appliance for your treatment. Working with an orthodontist who specializes in cosmetic treatment can help you determine the best option for you and your lifestyle.
Common Cosmetic Orthodontic Treatment Options
Adult and teen patients have several treatment options besides traditional braces. The two most common are clear aligners (commonly known as Invisalign) and lingual braces (braces behind the teeth.)
Both options are low profile and blend into your natural smile. Let's talk about the difference between the two:
