Crooked Teeth in Adults: Why It's Never Too Late for Orthodontic Treatment

Perhaps you’ve had years of smiling with your lips closed in pictures. You may have noted your teeth getting misaligned, or that your teeth appear more crowded. You may have felt that the time for braces had come and gone.

Every year, many adults take advantage of orthodontics, and the truth is, as long as you have healthy teeth, they can be aligned at any point in life. This article will address why teeth become misaligned, the benefits of orthodontics for adults, your choices, and when a consultation is appropriate for you.

Why Do Adults Have Crooked Teeth?

Misaligned teeth are very prevalent conditions, and there are numerous causes of misalignment in adult patients. There are patients who simply did not receive any form of orthodontic treatment in childhood, or those who have undergone it, but whose teeth moved over time.

Some frequent causes are:

• Genetic factors: Jaw size, teeth size and spacing may be hereditary.

• Changes in retainers: Over time teeth may move as a result of non-use of retainers after wearing braces.

• Age-related factors: Naturally, teeth move forward with age, making lower front teeth appear more crowded.

• Missing teeth: Remaining teeth may move toward the space of lost teeth.

• Wisdom teeth or other causes: Sometimes wisdom teeth or other causes may play a role in some patients, although the evidence regarding this cause varies.

None of these is associated with anything you have done wrong. Teeth are fixed in jawbones with ligaments, and are subject to many forces throughout life.

Is It Really Never Too Late?

In essence, age is not a determining factor since the movement of teeth is caused by gentle pressure regardless of whether you are 14 or 64 years old.

However, the most important issue besides age when considering orthodontic treatment is the state of your teeth and gums and the condition of the supporting bones. Usually, an orthodontist will examine the presence of gum disease and previous dental procedures before giving recommendations. If you need some dental care prior to this, a general dentist will assist in preparing for orthodontic procedures.

There are some distinctive features of adult treatment. Firstly, the jawbone is fully developed in adults, so there is no need for jaw shaping; treatment consists only of teeth movement. Secondly, adults may have some crowns, bridges, or implants, which should be considered by an orthodontist.

Benefits of Adult Orthodontic Treatment

The adult orthodontic treatment benefits many people talk about go beyond appearance. Depending on the individual, straighter teeth and a well-aligned bite may help with:

• Improved cleaning: Crowded teeth could make it more difficult for you to clean between them using your brush or dental floss. Having straighter teeth will allow for easier cleaning.

• More balanced bites: When your teeth bite down on one another, it might be easier for you to chew on food.

• Balanced wear: The pressure from biting will be distributed more evenly across your teeth.

• Comfortable jaw joints: In some instances, having a misaligned bite may lead to discomfort in your jaw joint. This will not apply to everyone and will require professional consultation to determine.

• Increased confidence: Adults have reported increased feelings of comfort smiling in pictures, during meetings, and when speaking to people. This is definitely enough motivation to pursue treatment.

All of these advantages can vary greatly between individuals.

Treatment Options for Adults

Your choices today are far more diverse and subtle than what many adults realize. Your orthodontist can help you determine which treatment is best for you considering your teeth and bite and how you live your life.

Clear aligners: Invisalign® uses a series of removable, clear aligners to gently move teeth into new positions. Adults often choose them because they are more discreet and allow removal to eat and brush. Clear aligners are generally used for more mild to moderate spacing and crowding. Your orthodontist can determine if they will be right for you. Check out our Invisalign options here.

Metal braces: Metal braces remain an effective and popular choice and can be used to correct everything from mild to severe misalignment. Modern braces are smaller and more comfortable than you might imagine.

Clear braces: These are similar to metal braces, except they use ceramic, white brackets to be more discreet.

Choosing an Orthodontist in Northeast Edmonton

If you're searching for a northeast Edmonton orthodontist, a few practical points can help you compare:

• Make sure that the practice you select offers various options so that the suggestion is made according to your need rather than a certain technique.

• Make sure that appointments are available at the times convenient for your job and family.

• Find out how communication will be managed regarding the treatment process.

• Think about whether a virtual consultation at the beginning would suit you.

If you'd like to straighten your teeth as an adult in Edmonton, a consultation is a low-pressure way to get information and see what's possible.

Take the Next Step

There is always time to ask how far you can go with your smile. Make a consultation appointment with us at City Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry to discover how you can achieve what you want. We have clinics in Edmonton and Spruce Grove or start with a free online consultation from your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it too late for braces or Invisalign for me?

No. Teeth can usually be moved regardless of age and many adults get orthodontic treatments. Your orthodontist will check your gums, teeth, and bones to ensure that treatment is a good option.

Will adult braces be more visible?

Maybe not. There are clear aligners and ceramic braces as well as the new types of metal braces which are smaller than the previous ones. Your orthodontist will demonstrate which braces are suitable for you.

Can my teeth revert to their old positions after treatment?

Yes, because teeth tend to move. It is one of the reasons why using a retainer is very important.

Do I need a referral for an orthodontic appointment?

No referral is generally necessary in order to schedule a consultation, although your family dentist can certainly play an important role in your treatment plan. It might be useful to update them especially if you have had any previous work done on your teeth.

Is teeth alignment just for aesthetics?

Certainly not! Teeth that are properly aligned may be easier to keep clean and chew with. Plus, many people report greater comfort from their straightened teeth. Of course, appearance and self-confidence also count.