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Recent advances in the field of orthodontics have made braces more appealing to the adult patient. In fact, approximately 20 percent of current orthodontics patients are over the age of 21. In the past, many adults shied away from the procedure due to the unsightly appearance of metal braces. Now, Long Island orthodontics specialists provide a variety of options for adults looking for a straighter smile, without compromising their physical appearance for treatment.

As with all medical procedures, it is important to consult with a professional to determine the appropriate course of action for your teeth. Here are three orthodontics innovations that add visual appeal and convenience to adult treatment.

Invisalign Invisible Alignment System

The Invisalign system uses a series of clear mouthpieces to straighten and align teeth. This solution is perfect for Long Island orthodontics candidates, especially adults, because the mouthpieces do not stand out like traditional metal braces do. Adults can maintain a professional, natural look while receiving treatment. The aligners can be taken out to brush and floss, enhancing the overall dental hygiene during treatment. What’s even better is that the aligners should also be removed for eating and drinking, so patients are not restricted by the foods they can eat.

Patients receive a series of mouthpieces to wear for two weeks at a time. This system only requires orthodontist visits every 8 to 10 weeks, whereas traditional braces require monthly appointments. From beginning to end, the Invisalign process takes approximately 6 to 15 months, also less time than the traditional process. In all, this treatment decreases the hassle and increases the convenience of orthodontics for busy adults. However, the Invisalign system is not for everyone, as it often can only fix minor tooth alignment problems.

LingualCare iBraces

iBraces provide an invisible solution for adults, whose orthodontics needs cannot be corrected by Invisalign. Long Island orthodontists use the hardware of traditional metal braces, such as brackets and wires, to apply iBraces. However, with the iBraces system, a provider of Long Island orthodontics places the aligners on the back of a patient’s teeth, again maintaining a visually-pleasing smile throughout the course of treatment. Others won’t even be able to see the braces!

This system is also more efficient than traditional braces because the hardware is completely customized for each patient to address specific orthodontic needs. The equipment used for traditional braces is only partially custom-designed for each Long Island orthodontics patient. Additionally, iBraces often can reduce the number of orthodontist appointments throughout the process because they do not require as many wire adjustments as traditional braces. Therefore, this treatment system can also reduce the discomfort of orthodontics and save time for adult patients.

Clear Ceramic Braces

Adult orthodontics patients will also appreciate the natural aesthetic look of clear ceramic braces. Providers of Long Island orthodontics apply this form of treatment in the same way as traditional metal braces, on the front of a patient’s teeth. However, the natural tooth color of the brackets help these braces blend in to the look of a person’s smile. Plus, orthodontists use white or clear rubber bands to hold the wire into place on the brackets. On average, a Long Island orthodontics patient completes a traditional braces treatment within 18 to 30 months

By: Christine OKelly

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