La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – Have you been living with a less than perfect smile for years but are wondering if you may have missed the window for orthodontics? There’s good news for you – it’s never too late to seek out orthodontic treatment! Check out this recent article by US News.

“While the idea of braces may conjure up an image of a pre-teen with a mouth full of metal, that’s not necessarily the case today,” says La Habra/Chino Hills orthodontic specialist Dr. Robert Gire of Gire Orthodontics. “Today, nearly one in five orthodontic patients is an adult. More than one million patients across the country are learning that a straighter smile can not only increase their self-esteem, but improve their oral health too.”

Some adults may have never had orthodontic treatment in their younger years. What may have been a simple inconvenience as a teen may possibly lead to more serious dental problems as an adult. Left untreated, orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, headaches, and problems with speaking, biting, and/or chewing.

Other adults may have had some treatment, but either didn’t complete it, or maybe didn’t wear their retainer as prescribed. This could lead to teeth shifting back to their previous positions over time, leaving the patient with a bad bite.

While it is never too late to seek out orthodontic treatment, it is important to note that seeking out treatment as an adult can be a bit more involved. That’s because adults don’t have the benefit of a growing jaw.

“In younger children, if we find the jaw size can’t adequately accommodate the incoming permanent teeth, we can aid its growth to ensure there is plenty of room,” says Dr. Robert Gire. “In adults, we don’t have that benefit. That means in some adults who have issues with crowding, overbites and underbites, we may need to make room before we can move the teeth to their new position.”

Just like orthodontic treatment for children, adult orthodontics is unique to each patient. A trained orthodontist will be able to properly diagnose your issue and craft a treatment plan that is individualized to meet your needs and give you a beautiful and functional smile.

“Many older patients are worried about the aesthetics of braces when getting treatment as an adult,” says Dr. Gire. “That’s understandable – for professionals and adult patients in general, the idea of having a mouth full of metal can be a deterrent. The good news is, there are more options for straightening teeth than ever before, and many marry aesthetics and function.”

Clear ceramic braces have the benefit of tried and true functionality just like conventional metal braces, but blend in better with the teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing option.

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, marry aesthetics with convenience because they are clear and removable, allowing you to eat and drink, brush and floss, while straightening your teeth with little interference of your daily life.

Conventional metal braces may not be your most ideal option, but they are still the most popular orthodontic treatment because they are extremely effective. More and more adults are seeking this option simply because there are more and more adults with braces today. And today’s braces are sleeker, smaller and more efficient than ever before.

“I love treating patients of all ages, but it’s very rewarding when an adult makes the decision to improve their smile,” says Dr. Gire. “Many people think orthodontics is all about cosmetics, and providing a beautiful smile is one big benefit of treatment. But my goal isn’t just a pretty smile. My goal is to provide a bite that functions effectively too. A straight, properly functioning bite is a healthy bite.”

Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more and more common. In fact, the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! More adults than ever are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids, and can help improve the aesthetics and health of a smile of any age! In a society where appearance matters and can help make the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing wisely to invest in orthodontic treatment.

Some of the most common reasons our adult patients come to us considering orthodontic treatment include:

• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart, sometimes as a result of tooth decay or gum disease
• Pain or pressure from crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw
• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly

Most of all though, adult patients come to our office seeking a healthier mouth and a more confident smile! Orthodontic treatment at our office can be successful at any age, and adults especially can appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

As an adult patient, we recognize that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. We understand you have a busy schedule, and will work with you to find a time that is convenient for you. Please visit our website or give our office a call to schedule your appointment today!

If you’ve lived for years with a less than perfect smile, it’s not too late to discover the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Call Gire Orthodontics today, 562-690-1199 (La Habra office) or 909-393-9911 (Chino Hills office), for a free consultation.