Many of our Sterling Heights, MI adult patients initially came to us with this question. And as common perception may have it, orthodontic treatment with braces isn’t just for kids and teenagers. In fact, nearly 20% of people wearing braces today are adults. Orthodontic treatment for adults can be highly effective and Dr. Jerek Petrous of Petrous Orthodontics specializes in adult orthodontics. We always tell our adult patients here at Petrous Orthodontics that it’s never too late to improve your smile and dental health.
Why Braces May Be Needed as an Adult
As we get older our teeth shift, and different teeth may grow at different rates than others too. You may even find that even if you underwent orthodontic treatment with braces as a kid (or had generally straighter teeth as a kid) you may need braces as an adult. Other than natural growth, teeth can also change in the event of an injury, or tongue thrust (a condition where the tongue projects through the front teeth during speech, swallowing, or when the tongue is at rest). All of these factors is why we at Petrous Orthodontics recommend that patients wear a retainer for a much longer period of time.
Treatment Options Available to Adults
There are many orthodontic treatment options available for adults other than tradition metal braces including: ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligner systems. Ceramic braces are popular because they are clear (or tooth-colored), with a clear wire to bind them. Lingual braces are affixed to the back surfaces of the teeth, thus hiding them from view. Clear aligner systems (like Invisalign) are clear plastic trays that are practically invisible and are removable by the wearer for brushing, flossing, and eating.
Costs
The cost of braces depends on how much work needs to be done, the specific type of treatment, your insurance plan provisions, and the schedule of payments. And Dr. Petrous will consult you to develop a course of treatment that is unique to your needs and your treatment goals, a schedule, and a budget that is right for you. Note that most insurance companies don’t cover braces for orthodontic patients over the age of 18, but the only way to be sure is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Petrous today. Contact us!
Dr. Jerek Petrous, Dr. John Marx and the team at Petrous Orthodontics are experts in braces. If you have any questions pertaining to Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen®, braces and/or clear braces in the 48071 zip code area: Madison Heights, Sterling Heights, Hazel Park, Warren, or Royal Oak, or would like to schedule an complementary consultation with Dr. Petrous or Dr. Marx, contact Petrous Orthodontics at: 248.588.2020