For Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21.

Understandably, adults are not too thrilled about regular braces. This is the reason why we at Century Orthodontics were one of the first in the country to adopt the Invisalign system, a series of clear "aligners" that gently straighten your teeth "invisibly".

Although orthodontists can move adult teeth almost as easily as kid’s teeth, the big difference is that, with no growth to work with, it is harder to correct "overbites" and other skeletal problems in adults. This often means that orthodontists often settle for a "Hollywood smile (straight teeth but an uncorrected bite alignment). For many patients this is a very acceptable compromise since ideal correction would often involve surgical repositioning of the jaws.

Adults also may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth and may require periodontal treatment before, during, and/or after orthodontic treatment. Bone loss can also limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is advisable.

Female patients on certain medications for osteoporosis may experience slowed or nonexistent tooth movement. If you are taking medication for osteoporosis or osteopenia make sure you inform your doctor.