Adult Orthodontics in Torrance, CA

Orthodontic Treatment Adult

Orthodontic braces were historically associated with teenagers. Today, an increasing number of adults in Torrance and across the South Bay are choosing to wear braces to straighten their teeth and correct malocclusions (bad bites). In fact, it is now estimated that almost one third of all current orthodontic patients are adults.

Orthodontic braces are predictable, versatile, and incredibly successful at realigning the teeth. Braces work in the same way regardless of the age of the patient, but the treatment time is greatly reduced in patients who are still experiencing jaw growth and have not been affected by gum disease. In short, an adult can experience the same beautiful end results as a teenager, but treatment often takes longer.

Can adults benefit from orthodontic braces?

Absolutely! Crooked or misaligned teeth look unsightly, which can cause a low self-esteem and a lack of self confidence. Aside from poor aesthetics, improperly aligned teeth can also cause difficulties biting, chewing, and articulating clearly. Generally speaking, orthodontists agree that straight teeth tend to be healthier teeth.

Straight teeth offer a multitude of health and dental benefits including:

• Reduction in general tooth decay
• Decreased likelihood of developing periodontal disease
• Decreased likelihood of tooth injury
• Reduction in digestive disorders

Fortunately, orthodontic braces have been adapted and modified to make them more convenient for adults. There are now a wide range of fixed and removable orthodontic devices available, depending on the precise classification of the malocclusion.

The most common types of malocclusion are underbite (lower teeth protrude further than upper teeth), overbite (upper teeth protrude further than lower teeth), and overcrowding where there is insufficient space on the arches to accommodate the full complement of adult teeth.

Prior to recommending specific orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will recommend treatment of any pre-existing dental conditions such as gum disease, excess plaque, and tooth decay. Orthodontic braces can greatly exacerbate any or all of these conditions.

Straight teeth offer a multitude of health and dental benefits including:

Fortunately, orthodontic braces have been adapted and modified to make them more convenient for adults. There are now a wide range of fixed and removable orthodontic devices available, depending on the precise classification of the malocclusion.

The most common types of malocclusion are underbite (lower teeth protrude further than upper teeth), overbite (upper teeth protrude further than lower teeth), and overcrowding where there is insufficient space on the arches to accommodate the full complement of adult teeth.

Prior to recommending specific orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will recommend treatment of any pre-existing dental conditions such as gum disease, excess plaque, and tooth decay. Orthodontic braces can greatly exacerbate any or all of these conditions.

What are the main types of orthodontic braces?

Traditional braces – These braces are strong and tend not to stain the teeth. They are comprised of individual brackets which are cemented to each tooth and accompanied by an archwire which constantly asserts gentle pressure on the teeth. Traditional braces are generally metal but are also available in a clear synthetic material and “tooth colored” ceramic. The ceramic brackets are usually more comfortable than the metal alternative, but can become discolored by coffee, wine, smoking, and certain foods.

Invisalign® – Invisalign® aligners are clear trays and should be worn for the recommended amount of time each day for the quickest results. Invisalign® aligners are clear trays, and should be worn for the recommended amount of time each day for the quickest results. Invisalign® aligners are more comfortable and less obtrusive than traditional braces but also tend to be more costly. Not all patients are candidates for Invisalign®.

Self Ligating braces – Self-ligating braces are different from traditional braces as they do not require elastic ties to hold the archwire in the bracket slot. The placement of elastic ties on traditional braces puts unnecessary pressure and increased friction on your teeth. Instead of elastic ties, the Empower Self-Ligating Bracket System we use at our Torrance office features a sliding gate that opens and closes to engage the wire, allowing the teeth to move more quickly, more easily, and more comfortably than conventional braces. The light forces of self-ligating braces are more compatible with your body than traditional, high-force brackets and allow for more efficient treatment and improved comfort.

If you have questions about orthodontic treatment with traditional braces or Invisalign Clear Aligners, please contact Jenuine Smiles Orthodontics in Torrance at hello@jenuinesmiles.com or 310-543-2711.

If you have questions about orthodontic treatment with traditional braces or Invisalign Clear Aligners, please contact our office at hello@jenuinesmiles.com or 310-543-2711.

I had braces as a teenager, but my teeth have shifted. Can I fix that now?

Yes. Teeth naturally drift over time, especially once you stop wearing a retainer. Many adults come to our Torrance office with crowding that returned years after their first round of braces. Dr. Jen can correct that shifting with Invisalign® or braces. After your teeth are back in place, wearing a retainer every night is what keeps them there.

Can I get braces or Invisalign® if I have crowns, implants, or missing teeth?

In most cases, yes. Braces and Invisalign® aligners can work around crowns, bridges, and fillings. Dental implants are fused to the jawbone and cannot be moved, so Dr. Jen plans your treatment around them. If you have a missing tooth, she can move nearby teeth to open or close the space before your dentist places a replacement. At your free consultation, Dr. Jen reviews your X-rays and existing dental work and coordinates with your general dentist when needed.

What is the least noticeable way for an adult to straighten teeth?

Invisalign® clear aligners are nearly invisible, and you can take them out for an important meeting or special event. You still need to wear them about 22 hours a day for them to work. Clear ceramic braces are another discreet option. The brackets blend in with your teeth, which is why adults often choose them. Not every bite is a fit for Invisalign®, so Dr. Jen will tell you which option gives you the best result.

Can orthodontic treatment help with jaw pain or TMJ?

It can when your bite is part of the problem. Dr. Jen includes a TMJ screening in every comprehensive orthodontic exam. Mild jaw pain often responds to over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses, and a night guard can help if you grind your teeth. When a bad bite is adding to the pain, braces or Invisalign® can move your teeth into a healthier position. Some cases need more imaging or a referral to a physical therapist who treats the jaw joint.

Will I need jaw surgery to correct my bite as an adult?

Not always. An adult jaw has finished growing, so braces alone can't correct some severe underbites, overbites, and jaw imbalances. In those cases, Dr. Jen pairs orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) performed by an oral surgeon. Many bite problems can still be handled with orthodontics alone. At your consultation, Dr. Jen will let you know whether surgery is worth considering.