Adult Treatment
Adult orthodontic treatment has certain demands that differentiate it from the needs of adolescent treatment. The adult patient usually presents with multiple dental issues, such as crowns, bridges, implants, and periodontal considerations. Knowledge and understanding of the proper sequencing and demands of these cases are very important, and we will work closely with your dentist and other specialists to achieve an ideal result.
Teeth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments designed for different age groups. Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem.
Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of tooth enamel and surfaces, and sometimes jaw and joint (TMJ/TMD) pain and related headaches.
Rapid Orthodontics (PAOO)
Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (PAOO) can straighten most adults’ teeth in one-third the time required for traditional orthodontics. More importantly, a greater degree of movement can be achieved, reducing the need for tooth extractions while providing increased bone and gum support. This option is particularly appealing for adult orthodontic patients who do not want to spend an average of two years wearing a mouth full of appliances.
PAOO puts orthodontics on a fast track by incorporating changes in the structure of the surrounding bone to accompany the repositioning of the teeth. Traditional orthodontic treatment focuses solely on forces applied to the teeth, while PAOO alters the bone in the process, facilitating faster movement. After the teeth have moved, the surrounding bone will regenerate, solidifying the results.
The initial periodontal (gum) surgery is a straightforward outpatient procedure, and in some cases, may help patients to avoid more complex and costly jaw surgery that repositions the jaw. Most patients can be treated with the PAOO method, but you must be evaluated by an orthodontist and periodontist to ensure that this course of treatment is appropriate for you.
Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe cases with improper bites and jaw bone abnormalities. In order to receive orthognathic surgery jaw growth must be complete. Orthognathic surgery will properly align the jaws, and orthodontic appliances will be used to move the teeth into their proper position.
If you need surgical orthodontics, your orthodontist will work with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure that you receive the best care possible. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform your orthognathic surgery, and the surgery will take place in a hospital. Orthognathic surgery can take several hours depending on each individual case. Once the surgery is complete, you will have about a two week rest period. Since orthognathic surgery is a major procedure, we recommend that you schedule some time away from work or school during the healing process. After your jaw heals, your orthodontist will “fine-tune” your bite.