Orthodontics for Adults

• Can help prevent or improve periodontal problems
• Can help prevent or reduce further bone loss around teeth
• Improves ability of the dentist to restore missing teeth
• Improves aesthetics for a better smile and facial appearance
• Improves function of teeth
• Improves self-confidence and self-esteem
• Improves oral health

Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities.

Dr. Francis received an additional three full years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth.

Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

You’ll feel at ease allowing our skilled orthodontic experts to carefully oversee your treatment every step of the way.

We’ll take X-rays of your teeth and work hand-in-hand with your dentist to know the intricacies of your smile and ensure that you receive the best possible result in your treatment.

This will give you the promise of a much better smile in the end.

Yes, healthy teeth can be moved at any age! However, orthodontic treatment for adults is different in two ways.

First, the growth and development of the jaws are complete in adults, so changes in your actual jaw structure can't be accomplished with orthodontic appliances in the same way as with a child.

Secondly, periodontal (gum) disease is more prevalent in adults than in children. While you are wearing orthodontic appliances, gentle forces will be applied to your teeth so they can move through their surrounding bone.

Periodontal health plays a key role in all of this; if the gum tissues are not healthy during orthodontics, bone loss can result and weaken the long-term prognosis of your teeth. Therefore, gum disease must be brought under control before orthodontic treatment begins.

And to maintain your periodontal health, you will need to make sure to have regular professional cleanings during your orthodontic treatment while maintaining good oral hygiene at home.

Many options are available today to minimize the appearance of braces. Today’s braces are smaller and sleeker, and some are next-to-invisible.

These options allow you to have flexibility and discretion during your treatment. Dr. Francis can advise you about options that will fit your particular needs.

You can do just about anything during orthodontic treatment – sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken. Some adjustments may be necessary. But, if you’re like the vast majority of adult patients, you’ll adjust quickly.

New techniques and materials have made wearing braces more comfortable and convenient than ever.

During your consultation, Dr. Francis can determine if you’ll benefit from treatment.

After carefully analyzing your needed correction, Dr. Francis will recommend the best treatment to improve your smile, including the different types of braces that are best for you.

Orthodontic treatment can create or hold space to replace missing teeth.

Dr. Francis will work with your dentist or dental specialist. They’ll provide bridges or implants so you can achieve the best result.

Dr. Francis will consult with your dentist and/or periodontist about the health of your gums.

If you’re a candidate for orthodontic treatment, you’ll continue regular supervision with your dentist and periodontist. In many cases, tooth alignment can improve the health of the gums.

The cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity and length of treatment. Dr. Francis will be glad to discuss the cost with you before treatment begins.

You’ll find that braces are more affordable today than ever. We offer a variety of convenient payment plans and accept many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits.