Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults

An orthodontist treats the position of teeth and the jaw to change the overall shape and appearance of a patient’s face. Orthodontics can be very helpful to those who are frustrated by their misaligned smile. 

However, orthodontics is a complicated area of dentistry. Because of the various specialties, some orthodontists may only treat children instead of adults. Adults may, therefore, find it difficult to get the dental care they need. This can be frustrating to older people who did not get the orthodontic treatment they needed as a child, but they now want it. 

The good news is that Galleria Dental offers services to patients of all ages – including orthodontics. While orthodontic issues can get complicated as a person gets older, our team is up to the challenge. Whether you are a child, teen or adult, we can help you understand how orthodontics can help you. 

Braces and Age

As a general rule, professional dental associations recommend that all kids be evaluated for orthodontics by age 7. By this age, orthodontists are to detect any issues with the teeth and jaws. 

Some kids may get orthodontic treatment earlier than expected. This is because early treatment will keep problems from developing as the child gets older. As the child gets their permanent teeth, the mouth will be better able to accommodate them. Most kids begin orthodontic treatment between the ages of 9 and 14.

Orthodontics for Teenagers

Most orthodontics treat teens. This is the age where the mouth has matured dramatically. By this time, many teens have developed crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can dramatically affect a teen’s appearance. 

Teenagers may not want to get braces, as they may feel self-confident about having metal brackets and wires in their mouths. Orthodontists understand that teens have concerns about how they look and feel about braces. That’s why there are different options to aid in aesthetics. For example, metal braces can be decorated with colored bands. There are also clear brackets available. Clear aligners can also be prescribed.

Orthodontics for Adults

Although childhood is the ideal time to get orthodontic work to fix the positioning of the teeth, more and more adults are getting orthodontic work. In fact, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, 20% of orthodontic patients are adults over the age of 18. This is because many adults never received orthodontic treatment as children.

As adults, they struggle with dental issues such as crooked or crowded teeth, overbites and underbites, and jaw joint disorders. These problems not only affect one’s smile and overall appearance, but they can also lead to issues affecting one’s overall health. A person can experience tooth decay and gum disease, as well as issues such as headaches, earaches, speaking problems and issue with biting or chewing.

These problems can be corrected in adulthood. However, the treatment process is a bit different. Adults are no longer growing, so the treatment process may take longer. Adults sometimes wear braces for as long as three years. Then, once the braces are removed, they may need to wear a retainer for a long period of time.

Do you or your child need orthodontic work?

You or your child may need to see an orthodontist, and not even know it. Here are some signs that orthodontic work is needed:

• Crowding or misplaced teeth
• Losing baby teeth early or late
• Difficulty biting or chewing 
• Breathing out of the mouth
• Jaws that make sounds
• Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
• Top and bottom teeth are not aligned
• Thumb or finger sucking habits

Contact Us

Orthodontics isn’t just for children and teens. People of all ages can enjoy healthier, straighter teeth with the right orthodontic work. There are braces, retainers and clear aligners available.

Our team has helped many patients in Virginia achieve a healthier, straighter and more attractive smile. Whether you are a child or an adult, we can help you as well. Request a free consultation with our orthodontist today.