Clear aligner orthodontic treatment like Invisalign® involves using a series of clear plastic trays to gradually move the teeth to the position the orthodontist plans on a computer. Although there are limitations to the types of problems that can be treated using this technique, many orthodontic problems can be successfully treated with clear aligners either alone or in conjunction with braces. Orthodontic treatment with clear aligners generally requires more patient cooperation; however, in the end provides an esthetic treatment option with easier cleanings and few dietary restrictions. Please make an appointment for a consultation to find out if clear aligner therapy is an option for you.

Absolutely not! Healthy teeth, bones, and gums respond well to orthodontic treatment regardless of age. Most orthodontic problems can be treated during adulthood and esthetic treatment options have made orthodontic treatment more appealing to the adult group.

The duration of comprehensive orthodontic treatment can vary between 6 and 36 months depending on the problem’s severity and the patient’s compliance. Patients that take care of their orthodontic appliances, keep their teeth clean, wear their rubber bands and/or other appliances as instructed and avoid missing appointments usually complete their treatment on time with good results.

Orthodontic treatment involves either fixed or removable appliances that guide the teeth and/or jaws to a better position. Orthodontic treatment involves a significant amount of patient cooperation so an excellent orthodontic result requires a cooperative orthodontic patient. Patient cooperation involves wearing orthodontic appliances as prescribed, visiting the orthodontist every 4-6 weeks to adjust the orthodontic appliances, avoiding certain types of food, practicing good hygiene habits, and going to the family dentist for regular cleanings and dental check-ups to maintain oral health.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get an orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. Getting early check ups allows the orthodontist to spot certain problems that are best treated earlier than usual. This can prevent more serious problems from developing, and may allow the orthodontists to utilize growth to achieve a better result. Even if your child is older than 7, it’s still important to have an orthodontic check-up as soon as possible since children continue to grow into their teens and most orthodontic problems can be successfully treated at any age.

In addition to the esthetic and psychological problems associated with an unattractive smile, untreated orthodontic problems can cause difficulty cleaning, abnormal wear of the tooth surfaces, damage to tissues supporting the teeth, difficulty speaking, and possibly joint problems (TMJ-TMD).