Is There a Difference Between Adult and Kids Orthodontics?

Do you have a child at home that needs orthodontics? Or, maybe you’re looking for orthodontics for yourself? You may be wondering if there’s a difference as well as which type of treatment would work best for you. Thankfully, your orthodontist in Auburn has the answers. They can treat kids and adults at their practice for quality and convenient care. Keep reading to learn more about orthodontics for adults and kids as well as which option would work best for you.

Phase 1 Orthodontics

Once your son or daughter has received an evaluation, your orthodontist may decide that they need phase 1 orthodontics. This involves using a simple device like a retainer or braces to straighten their temporary (baby) teeth. This aligns their baby teeth to create a straight path for the permanent ones and it also helps properly develop their jawbone. After phase 1 is complete, your orthodontist will decide whether or not your child needs phase 2 orthodontics—any orthodontic treatment after their permanent teeth have erupted.

Traditional Braces

If you or your child are looking for a straighter smile, traditional braces are still the most effective and affordable option. This metal bracket and wire system straightens adult and teen teeth over time for a beautifully aligned smile. Thankfully, your options today are much better than they were hundreds of years ago when braces were first used.

Invisalign Clear Braces

A much more popular solution for teens and adults, Invisalign treatment allows you to straighten your teeth with discreet, clear plastic aligners. Using a series of aligning trays, your orthodontist can gradually shift your teeth over time. You’ll wear each aligner for about 2 weeks, for 20 to 22 hours a day until your treatment is complete. Because of this commitment, this option is not often recommended to younger patients.

Additionally, there is Invisalign Teen, which is essentially the same Invisalign treatment as adults, only there’s a small blue dot on the clear aligners so parents can tell if their teen is wearing it (they also come with more replacement aligners because let’s face it, teens can be a little careless).

How Do I Know Which One is Right for Me?

With the various options, how do you know which orthodontic treatment is right for you? Contact your orthodontist for a consultation. They will be able to examine you or your child’s mouth to provide the best recommendation. After, they will develop a personalized treatment plan with a time and cost estimate.

Now that you know more about orthodontics for children and adults, you can make a more informed decision when deciding on treatment for you and your family.

Meet the Orthodontist

At New England Kids, we have pediatric dentists along with our orthodontist, Dr. Reema Dhingra. Highly-trained and experienced, she can provide orthodontics for patients of all ages. For any questions, she can be reached through her website or by phone at (508) 832-6278.