Don’t let your age stop you from attaining the perfect smile. Orthodontic treatments know no age limit, and your overall dental health does not need to be perfect either. If you are past your teens and twenties, Dr. Mike Mizell might be your best choice for an orthodontic consultation and treatment.
Can an Orthodontist Treat My Other Conditions?
The process is similar whether you are 8 or 80 because the physiological movement of teeth through bone does not change. Adults might have a thicker bone tissue than children, and this can prolong treatments longer than it would take for adolescents. Other factors that affect length of time are missing teeth, misshapen and worn teeth, fillings, or dental-related disease. However, an orthodontist is more than capable of treating each of them. Orthodontists have formal training in both general dentistry and advanced orthodontics, providing you with the expertise to diagnose and treat you.
How Does the Process Work?
The first step is a consultation. If you require other dental work, they will address that first before starting the realignment process. This could be as simple as a filling or more extensive work such as crown replacement or root canal, which are performed by your general dentist.
When/if your teeth are healthy, Dr. Mizell will begin the process of moving your teeth in the proper direction and position. They will use methods such as aligners or braces. Both provide the necessary force to gradually guide your teeth to the proper position.
What Kinds of Orthodontic Appliances are there?
Gone are the days where appliance designers submit patients to a mouth full of unsightly and bulky metal. Many options are available to suit everyone’s needs: hidden braces that go behind the teeth, tooth-color braces, smaller braces that resemble the original style, colored braces, and clear aligners such as Invisalign.
Keep in mind that Dr. Mizell is a specialist and well trained for this. He will assess your oral health and consider other factors before determining which method will be suitable for you. Every person is different. What works for one patient might not do as well for another.
How Long Does it Take?
The process varies, but adults will require about 22 months of on-going treatment. You can expect to visit our Houston Orthodontics office every six to eight weeks. If you have other dental issues your orthodontist is treating, the process could take longer. The less dense your teeth are, the easier they will be to realign.
What are the Benefits of Braces or Aligners?
A nice, perfectly straight smile comes to mind as a major benefit, but it isn’t the only reason you should consider braces or alignments. When your teeth aren’t straight, you can’t talk, bite, or chew properly. It can also cause strain on your TMJ and cause severe pain, jaw locking, and digestive issues that last for days or weeks.
Why Choose an AAO Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists is exclusive to orthodontists so you know you are receiving qualified care. AAO members have gone the extra mile in both their experience and education. They are experts in dentofacial orthopedics and orthodontics. Aside from dental school, they have continued their education through an accredited orthodontic residency.