Adult Patients

A recent survey by the American Association of Orthodontists showed a 37 percent increase in the number of adult patients. More than one million adults in the United States are currently wearing braces. Adults account for 45 percent of Dr. Fulton's patients.

In addition to the esthetic reasons for getting braces as an adult, there are also significant dental and medical health reasons for adult orthodontics. Crowded, excessively spaced or misaligned teeth can wear unevenly over time. Misaligned teeth can lead to a variety of problems in adults, including headaches, jaw pain and difficulty cleaning and maintaining the teeth, which can lead to decay and gum disease. Periodontal disease and poor health are correlated.

Advances in orthodontic treatment have made wearing braces easier for adults. Tooth-colored braces, braces that are placed on the back of the teeth and Invisalign braces all offer adults options for wearing braces that are less noticeable than traditional braces.

Adult patients sometimes require orthognathic surgery or treatment for TMJ. Click on these links to learn more.

For more information about adult orthodontics, take a look at this pamphlet published by the AAO.