Adult OrthodonticsCleburne, TX

Adult orthodontic treatment has been growing more and more popular over the years. Contrary to popular belief, orthodontics can be helpful even to those with fully mature teeth. Adult orthodontic treatment can help resolve various oral health issues while also improving one’s smile.

Adult orthodontic treatment is available at Tennison Orthodontics in Cleburne and the surrounding area. It is never too late to get the smile you want. Call us today at 817-522-7358 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

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Why Adult Orthodontics

In the past, it was rare to find an adult orthodontics patient. Now, adults make up one in every four orthodontic patients. There are many reasons an adult may need orthodontic treatment, ranging beyond the cosmetic. Just as with children, orthodontic treatment may decrease adult patients’ risk of various dental problems in the future.

Orthodontic problems affect patients of all ages. Common issues include:

  • Gaps between the teeth
  • Open bites
  • Overbites
  • Overcrowding
  • Overjets
  • Underbites

It is essential to note that the above list is not exhaustive. In any case, misaligned teeth and jaws can gradually wear down the tooth surfaces and cause other oral and overall physical health problems down the line. Dr. Tennison can make a precise diagnosis after a thorough physical examination.

Preparing for Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Many adults refrain from getting the orthodontic treatment they need because they do not know what to expect. However, the details are not as complicated as some may believe. Patients must be able to block off time every four to six weeks for a check-up with the orthodontist, and they must also be willing to adapt their diet during certain types of treatment. Those who will need traditional braces should also expect to spend a little longer on their oral hygiene routine, as wired braces typically make it more difficult to brush and floss.

Some patients also benefit from knowing what they want to discuss ahead of time. For example, there are more teeth straightening options on the market than ever before, ranging from conventional metal braces to clear aligners like Invisalign. Dr. Tennison can determine which options will work best for each patient and estimate their overall treatment time. He can also give patients a general idea of taking care of their teeth while undergoing treatment, how often they will need to come in for office visits, and how to best maintain results after completing treatment.

Children’s vs. Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Though both children and adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment, there are still some critical differences between the treatment they receive. One of these is age-related considerations. It is not uncommon for adult patients to have insufficient bone between the tooth roots, which can cause inadequate blood supply, mild cases of gingivitis, and marginal bone loss. Plus, since adult bones are harder and fully matured, the aged tissue often prolongs treatment and realignment.

Similarly, adults are also more likely to require tooth extraction when addressing an improper bite (also known as a malocclusion). They may also have some teeth that are worn down, making any malocclusion worse. In such cases, orthodontic treatment will focus primarily on restoring the function of the mouth. Despite possible complications, adult orthodontics can still save patients from unnecessary pain and dental problems in the future. Dr. Tennison has the experience and training necessary to guide each patient safely through the process.

What Happens During Adult Orthodontic Treatment

Adult orthodontic treatment involves using a set of appliances to realign the teeth. These appliances can be traditional wired braces or clear aligners. Each set of appliances gradually realign the teeth by applying gentle, consistent pressure. Teeth move as a result of the bone tissue breaking down and rebuilding. The stage of treatment that involves moving teeth is known as “active treatment.”

Braces consist of two parts: brackets and wires. Wires move the teeth, while brackets hold the wires. Dr. Tennison may add other components as necessary. Wires are threaded throughout slots in the brackets, which are attached directly to the teeth. Wires may also be held in place by tiny rubber bands. In comparison, clear aligners are made of a transparent plastic-like material and must be switched out for a new set every one to three weeks. Patients must wear them for approximately 22 hours per day for optimum results.

Call Us Today

Adult orthodontics can help improve oral hygiene, reduce chances of gum disease and tooth decay, and enhance your smile. We at Tennison Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 817-522-7358 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete adult orthodontic treatment?

The answer varies on a case-by-case basis. Most adults have busy schedules and want to get their treatment over with as soon as possible. Dr. Tennison can determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs and goals.

How can adult orthodontics benefit me?

Many people do not realize that the jaw and mouth change shape over time. Jawbones lose density over time, causing the teeth to shift and become overcrowded. As a result, you may find swallowing or chewing difficult or even painful. Overlapping teeth can also be hard to clean, making them more prone to tooth decay. Correcting these problems can improve your dental health and, thus, your overall physical health.

Is it too late for me to get adult orthodontic treatment?

Although it may be easier to receive orthodontic treatment at an early age, you can never be too old to get braces. It is never too late to take care of your teeth. Dr. Tennison can determine which teeth straightening option is best for you.

Does adult orthodontic treatment hurt?

Modern technology has reduced most of the pain associated with braces. However, it is not uncommon to feel some discomfort when you first get braces (or aligners) or get them tightened (or you receive a new set of aligners). Still, this discomfort is usually more of a feeling of pressure and subsides as you adapt.

Will I need to change my diet while undergoing adult orthodontic treatment?

Yes. This is true whether you have traditional braces or clear aligners. Patients with conventional braces should avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods since these may bend or break the braces. Those with clear aligners should only eat when their aligners are removed. They should also refrain from drinking anything other than water when their aligners are on.

Check out what others are saying about our orthodontic services on Yelp: Adult Orthodontics in Cleburne

Contact Us

Tennison Orthodontics is located at
843 N Nolan River Rd
Cleburne, TX
76033

(817) 522-7358