Treatment for Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. Some of our adult patients have seen the great results of orthodontics within their families and finally decide it’s time to do something for themselves! One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. Frequently we work together with your General Dentist or other Dental Specialists, to place the teeth in an optimal position for implants, crowns or veneers. This allows for the best overall result.

With advances in technology, there are even more options available to adult patients than ever.  Invisalign straightens your teeth by using series of clear aligners. Aligners, which are almost invisible, can be removed for eating, brushing and flossing, making them a comfortable and hygienic treatment option.

If braces are recommended as the most effective treatment for you, we offer a very esthetic option of tooth colored brackets.

Adults have frequently experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone support and therefore may require periodontal treatment before, during or after orthodontic treatment. It is also advisable to have a full checkup & cleaning before treatment begins, along with any recommended dental work. Dr. Chang recommends our adult patients be monitored on a 3-4 monthly schedule by a hygienist during active treatment. Bone loss can also limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is advisable.

Dr. Chang may recommend jaw surgery for some adult patients to achieve the best appearance and bite function. If the jaws are misaligned on adult patients a surgical option may be the only way to achieve facial balance and stability of the orthodontic correction.