Adult Orthodontic Patients: A Different Ball Game than Treating Children

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Adult Orthodontic Patients A Different Ball Game
than Treating Children
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When dealing with adolescent patients,
orthodontic procedures are often undertaken to
prevent future problems from materializing and
causing issues later. With adults, these issues
are often already present. Therefore, adults
might choose to undergo tooth straightening
procedures to help stave off later stages of gum
disease.
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Malleability is the ability of an object to be
formed or shaped. Logically, a tooth is more
malleable when it is first being positioned in
the mouth during adolescence. However, that does
not mean that adults cannot benefit from
orthodontic treatment.
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The plan for treatment is very similar in
adolescents and adults, with a few notable
exceptions. Since the jaw cannot be enlarged in
adults with ease, surgery is often required.
Another option for this is to have a tooth
pulled. These procedures are needed to make room
for the realignment of the teeth. After that,
braces are installed and the procedure is similar
at any age from that point onward.
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Braces are a major cosmetic concern for both
children and adults. Since braces are so common
in adolescents, though, the concern is mitigated.
However, orthodontists must keep in mind that
many people are not used to seeing adults with
braces. That makes appearance a major issue for
adult patients.