Orthodontics, the branch of dentistry that focuses on aligning teeth and jaws, is not limited to children alone. While many people associate braces with teenagers, adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment. However, there are significant differences between adult and children’s orthodontics, from the treatment options available to the physiological factors affecting the process. In this blog post, we’ll explore these differences to help you understand the unique aspects of orthodontic care for these two distinct age groups.
Treatment Goals
Children’s Orthodontics:
- The primary goal of orthodontic treatment in children is to guide the development of their teeth and jaws as they grow.
- Early intervention can prevent or address issues like crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
- The focus is on correcting misalignment issues and ensuring the proper eruption of adult teeth.
Adult Orthodontics:
- In adults, the primary goal is to address existing alignment and bite problems that may have been left untreated in childhood or have developed over time.
- Adult orthodontics can also involve addressing cosmetic concerns and improving oral health, such as reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Treatment Timing
Children’s Orthodontics:
- Orthodontic treatment for children typically starts when a child still has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, usually around the age of 7-9.
- Early intervention can take advantage of the natural growth of the jaws and help guide the development of the teeth.
Adult Orthodontics:
- Adult orthodontic treatment can begin at any age, as long as the individual has healthy teeth and gums.
- Many adults seek orthodontic care for cosmetic reasons or to address long-standing issues that were never corrected.
Orthodontic Appliances
Children’s Orthodontics:
- Common orthodontic appliances for children include traditional metal braces, removable appliances, and expanders.
- In some cases, early orthodontic intervention may reduce the need for comprehensive treatment later.
Adult Orthodontics:
- Adults have a wider range of treatment options, including traditional braces, clear aligners (such as Invisalign), and lingual braces (attached to the back of the teeth).
- The choice of appliance is often influenced by cosmetic concerns and lifestyle preferences.
Treatment Duration
Children’s Orthodontics:
- The duration of orthodontic treatment for children is generally shorter than for adults because their jaws are still growing and malleable.
- Treatment can last from a few months to a couple of years.
Adult Orthodontics:
- The duration of adult orthodontic treatment can vary widely, typically lasting from one to three years.
- The treatment time may be longer due to fully developed jaws and potential complications from prior dental work.
Compliance and Responsibility
Children’s Orthodontics:
- Parents play a crucial role in ensuring their child’s compliance with orthodontic instructions, such as wearing appliances and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Adult Orthodontics:
- Adult patients have more responsibility for their orthodontic treatment, including following instructions, maintaining oral hygiene, and attending regular appointments.
Conclusion
Orthodontic care is not limited to children, as adults can also benefit from these treatments. Understanding the differences between adult and children’s orthodontics is essential for making informed decisions about orthodontic care at any age. Whether addressing issues early in childhood or improving oral health and appearance as an adult, orthodontics plays a vital role in creating healthy, functional, and confident smiles. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, contact Dr. Georgaklis’ office today at (858) 552-1223 to learn more about your orthodontic options and take the first step towards a beautiful, healthy smile!
