There have been so many exciting innovations in orthodontic technology recently that there has never been a better time to explore all the ways treatment can transform a smile. Although orthodontics is traditionally associated with teens, patients of all ages can benefit from treatment, including adults. As a matter of fact, about 1 in every 5 orthodontic patients is over the age of 18!
We are seeing more adults than ever looking to straighten their smile and correct issues they have struggled with for many years. Dr. Chad Sears is proud to offer a variety of affordable treatment options to children, teens, and adults in Lexington and the surrounding communities. At Coppe + Sears, we help patients take the first step towards the confident smile they have always wanted every day! But why are more adults now looking into orthodontic treatment for themselves?
More than just a straighter smile
Each one of us has personal reasons for making the choices we do, including the decision to seek orthodontic treatment. As we age, we often become more aware of how our oral health is linked to our total body health. For many adults, this knowledge is the impetus for change! We often see adult patients who are looking for dental and orthodontic treatments that will allow them to keep their teeth and gums healthy, and their mouths functioning optimally.
Some adult patients received orthodontic treatment earlier in life, but it was never completed. They contact our practice because they wish to finish up the treatment process, or even start it again from scratch! Touch-up treatment is common, as well. Even when treatment is completed at a younger age, the teeth are still prone to natural shifting over time due to age and genetics. Improper retainer use can also undo the work earlier treatment achieved. In these cases, there are multiple ways Dr. Sears can treat the patient. He may choose to do nothing more than monitor the teeth over time to see what if they continue to shift, provide the patient with new retainers, or even re-treat them using braces or aligners.
Some of the adult patients we see have never had any treatment before, but are finally in a place to improve the cosmetic appearance of their smile. This is no small thing, of course! Multiple studies have shown that a beautiful smile can boost a patient’s confidence and self-esteem, and have a positive impact on both their personal and professional lives. Whatever a patient’s personal reasons for exploring orthodontic treatment, Dr. Sears has multiple options available.
What treatment options does Coppe + Sears offer to adult patients?
Thanks to modern orthodontic techniques and technology, it is easier than ever for us to help patients achieve a total smile transformation. Dr. Sears is proud to offer the following treatment options for our adult patients.
Damon metal and Damon Clear braces
Traditional braces typically use elastic tie-ins, which may cause friction and pressure. This can make treatment less comfortable and sometimes add time to the treatment process. The Damon system uses passive, self-ligating braces to eliminate the need for any elastics or metal ties. The unique high-tech wires are also able to straighten the teeth faster, with fewer adjustments, and with less pressure.
Damon braces have a patented slide mechanism to hold the archwire in place while allowing the teeth to move freely and quickly without much friction. Like traditional braces, Damon metal braces are incredibly efficient at fixing orthodontic issues that range from simple to severe. In some cases, they are able to work faster at closing gaps and aligning the teeth than other treatments might!
The Damon System has been designed to be more discreet than traditional braces, and it is also available in clear brackets. This option can be excellent for adult patients looking for a more discreet way to straighten their teeth.
Clear aligner therapy
Clear aligners can be an exciting alternative to braces! These innovative systems use a series of clear aligners to straighten the teeth instead of brackets, bands, and wires. The removable trays are made of a thermoplastic resin and are customized to fit snugly over the teeth for a comfortable fit. Because aligners are removable, patients have a bit more freedom and flexibility than braces patients do.
That said, patient compliance is crucial to successful treatment with clear aligners! The trays must be worn for 20-22 hours per day throughout the orthodontic process and switched out with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks. This is what allows the aligners to keep up with the movement of the teeth over time, giving patients an efficient treatment option and superior results.
All of our treatment options are a good fit for busy adults! Dr. Sears will recommend the best treatment for each patient based on their specific needs, lifestyle, and goals.
Get a great smile at any age with braces from Coppe + Sears
At Coppe + Sears, we are committed to providing patients of all ages with exceptional care and incredible results. Our state-of-the-art technology allows us to offer a rewarding and stress-free experience from a patient’s initial consultation to the unveiling of their brand new beautiful smile! To learn more about how orthodontic treatment can transform a smile into something special, get in touch today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chad Sears and take the first step towards improved oral health.