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Adult Orthodontics

When most orthodontists meet an adult patient intent on correcting crooked teeth, they usually take it slow. Amid all the brouhaha about adult braces there are oral health concerns exclusive to adults that will affect how to plan the treatment.

A touch of gum disease

Because crowded teeth and misaligned jaws are often difficult to keep clean, some adult patients have a degree of gum disease. These patients should be referred to a dental hygienist or a periodontist for cleaning and gum therapy before teeth straightening starts. Then, during orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will need to be especially alert to new outbreaks. He or she may want to apply less pressure orthodontically early in treatment, so gum tissue attachments have a chance to strengthen. For more information on gum therapy or dental cleanings, please visit our gum disease and hygiene sections for more articles.

What about missing teeth?

Orthodontic appliances need to be attached to something to provide the "push" and "pull" that move teeth. If key anchor teeth are missing, restorative dentistry may be suggested before the appliance can be placed.

Bite problems

More and more patients with temporomandibular or jaw joint problems (TMJ) are beginning to be seen by many dentists. TMJ disorders are very painful, and may result in uneven wearing of teeth or a jaw way out of position. The priority before teeth straightening is to address the jaw problem, and try to correct the bite before any more stress is added to the situation. So in the end you'll finish your orthodontic program with healthier gums, rejuvenated bone, a better bite, and a great smile to boot.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Clear Braces: The Beauty of Choice in Orthodontics

If you want to avoid looking unattractive while you straighten your teeth, you may find clear braces an attractive option.

You can get the orthodontic work you need without having to compromise aesthetics along the way.

When people say "clear braces," they usually mean what orthodontists and braces dentists call ceramic braces.

Instead of the big ugly metal brackets used in traditional braces, these braces have tooth-colored ceramic brackets that are far less noticeable.

Clear elastics and white-colored metal means everything is less visible to others.

But sometimes when people talk about "clear braces," they mean Invisalign braces or another system of clear plastic aligners.

Though they straighten teeth, they are no braces per se. The trays fit over the teeth like an ultra-thin mouth guard, slowly moving teeth into place.

They're not just invisible; they're also removable. But, as with so many other things, beauty can have its price.

Ceramic braces cost slightly more than their metal counterparts. Moreover, the ceramic brackets are somewhat more prone to breakage. And plastic aligners simply can't move teeth as dramatically as can actual braces.

Make sure you've learned the pros and cons before making a final decision.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.